Bafana Bafana starlet Relebohile Mofokeng put in energetic performances against Panama.
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo / Independent Newspaper
Bafana Bafana may have ended their international window with a disappointing defeat, but there was still recognition for individual brilliance — particularly from an unlikely source.
Panama head coach Thomas Christiansen singled out Relebohile Mofokeng as a standout performer across the two friendlies, underlining the youngster’s growing reputation beyond South African borders.
South Africa’s defeat in the second encounter marked their first home defeat under Hugo Broos since his appointment in May 2021. It followed a draw in the opening fixture — a match in which Bafana controlled large spells but failed to convert their chances.
That inefficiency proved costly once more. Panama, by contrast, were clinical; they created fewer opportunities but displayed the composure and precision that ultimately separated the two sides, underpinned by a disciplined defensive organisation in the second leg.
Yet, despite the result, Christiansen was quick to acknowledge the quality within the South African ranks.
“The South African side... Mofokeng is a very good player. He can make the difference,” Christiansen told the media. “He’s fast, technically skilled, and very strong. He has a good view; he can give good passes and, as a young player, he’s very important for the future."
The former Barcelona striker also noted the depth of the squad: “You have [Lyle] Foster up front with experience, midfielders who cover a lot of space, and a good goalkeeper. Their full-backs are technically strong and good in attack.
"Mbokazi, although I didn’t mention him initially, is a good centre-back with a lot of quality. And we also had the player from Minnesota [Bongokuhle Hlongwane] — yes, he’s also a good player. I could mention everyone.”
Mofokeng’s impact comes as little surprise given his form for Orlando Pirates this season. The 19-year-old has been a revelation in the Betway Premiership, consistently influencing matches in the final third. His ability to carry the ball, create chances, and operate with a confidence beyond his years has made him a key figure at club level — and, increasingly, for the national team.
What stood out across the two matches was not just his raw talent, but his willingness to take responsibility. In a Bafana side still searching for a cutting edge, Mofokeng looked like one of the few players capable of unlocking settled defences and injecting urgency into the transition.
For Broos, this presents both an opportunity and a challenge. While the broader team performance will raise concerns — particularly regarding finishing and game management — the emergence of players like Mofokeng offers a genuine glimpse into the future. If Christiansen’s assessment is anything to go by, that future has already arrived.