Relebohile Mofokeng's mother reveals family values behind Orlando Pirates star's rise

The Orlando Pirates forward enjoyed another impressive season despite questions earlier in the campaign about whether missing out on a move abroad had affected him mentally.

Before the start of the 2025/26 season, Mofokeng was heavily linked with a move overseas, with several clubs reportedly interested in securing his services. Instead, the Sharpeville-born attacker remained at Pirates and endured a relatively quiet start to the campaign.

The debate to see the attacker going abroad has intensified especially after his strong season as he finished the Betway Premiership 10 goals and 11 in all competitions as Pirates secured a historic domestic league treble for the first time since 2012.

Now representing Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mofokeng's mother says his rapid rise has never come as a surprise.

"To tell you the truth, I expected everything that is coming his way, because when I pray, I pray for him more than myself and he deserves everything that is happening in his life," Naomi said in an interview on Radio 2000.

"He has always liked football, he could go all day long, not even eating. I would go out at night, wondering, looking for him."

Naomi also revealed that family remains central to keeping the youngster focused despite growing attention.

"He does not go out that much; he's not an outgoing person. So, most of the time, it's family time, so that is what keeps him grounded."

While proud of what he has achieved locally, she admitted that playing abroad remains the family's ultimate ambition.

"Everyone wants to see themselves playing abroad and many people are praying that this season he must go."

At the World Cup, Mofokeng has continued with his great form, with the Bucs player being praised for his contributions in Bafana's 1-1 draw with Czech Republic, which kept their tournament hopes alive going into their last group game against South Korea on Thursday.