Meet Relebohile Mofokeng: the young Buccaneer steering Orlando Pirates into a bright new era

I always tell my friends that the day Relebohile Mofokeng leaves Orlando Pirates, I won’t just be sad - I’ll cry real, unstoppable tears.

He is pure gold to us as supporters. I felt it when Thembinkosi Lorch walked away.

I felt it again when Monnapule Saleng left. And losing Mbekezeli Mbokazi hurt even deeper. But when President Yama 2K, as he is affectionately known, finally moves on, I know I’ll be crying like never before. 

Fans first met Mofokeng - then known as Relebohile Ratomo - on May 3, 2023. He had spent only a few months in the club’s DStv Diski Challenge setup when the Buccaneers fast-tracked him to the senior squad.

His debut came in a DStv Premiership match against Royal AM at Orlando Stadium. From the moment he stepped onto the pitch, it was clear this was no ordinary talent. His first shot deflected off Royal AM’s Elias Domingues and went into the net.

Fans erupted, believing it to be his debut goal, though it was officially recorded as an own goal.

Just weeks later, in only his second game, Mofokeng scored his first official goal and provided an assist in a 4 - 0 victory over AmaZulu. He had arrived, not just as a promising youngster, but as a player capable of shaping matches.

A product of the SAFA-Transnet School of Excellence, he was scouted by Pirates ahead of the 2022/23 season. His name may have changed from Ratomo to Mofokeng, but his impact on the pitch remained the same: unmistakable, magnetic and unforgettable.

Now 21, Mofokeng is a cornerstone of the Pirates’ Betway Premiership campaign. Despite persistent transfer speculation, he has stayed loyal to the Buccaneers.

Speaking about his commitment, he has said he is “ready to die” for the club, fully invested in their current title chase. His influence is undeniable.

In the last three matches alone, he has recorded three goals and two assists, including a standout performance against Marumo Gallants on Saturday, February 14, helping the team extend their lead at the top of the table to six points.

Mofokeng’s presence on the field inspires confidence. Reflecting on the victory over Gallants, he admitted that the first half was “tough” due to their low block, but emphasised that Pirates “had to show that we are number one,” particularly after losing to them in the first leg.

He knows the responsibility of being a leader, not just in stats, but in presence and mindset.

Fans across the league recognise his brilliance. He was recently voted the CAF Champions League Group Stage Best Player.

Supporters call him “special” and “incomparable”, praising his ability to see the game beyond a normal human vision and create scoring opportunities from nowhere.

On X, @makwande_m said: “Relebohile Mofokeng is a pure star! Everything he touches turns to gold.”

@SaneleManzini4 added: “He’s the face of South African football. Absolutely magnificent.” @SbhamuSenyoni called him “the greatest talent to ever be produced in South Africa. Too good for this level.”

@jefszn wrote: “That boy carries Orlando Pirates and the fanbase in his heart every single time he plays. Special connection.”

What makes Mofokeng extraordinary is not just his talent, but who he is off the pitch. Despite sudden fame, he remains humble, disciplined and deeply connected to his roots in Sharpeville in Vereeniging.

He frequently returns home to spend time with local children, using his success to inspire the next generation.

Mofokeng has taken the weight of expectation, the shine of celebrity and turned it into a platform for hope and leadership.