Is Relebohile Mofokeng running out of time? Broos casts doubt on Orlando Pirates youngster’s AFCON 2025 hopes

Africa 08 November 2025 at 13:20

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has hinted that Orlando Pirates starlet Relebohile Mofokeng may not make South Africa’s final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco admitting that the 21 year old’s place "is far from guaranteed"

Speaking to the media ahead of November’s friendly against Zambia, Broos revealed that around 75-80% of his final AFCON squad is already decided with only a few spots still open.

"Some players are not there now — Mofokeng, Ngezana and others" Broos said. "It’s my job to make choices and sometimes they’re not easy. We’ll decide before 8 December"..

Form & fitness raise doubts

Once hailed as South Africa’s new "starboy" Mofokeng has struggled to replicate his breakout 2024 /25 season where he scored 12 goal and delivered 15 assist in all competitions.

This campaign, however he has yet to score and has managed only one assist in 12 appearance while injury problems have sidelined him for the past month.

Broos challenge: merit over sentiment

Broos who led South Africa to the 2023 AFCON semifinals has long emphasised form and consistency over reputation. He previously defended Mofokeng after transfer speculation "made him crazy" but his tone has now shifted toward rewarding players performing at club level.

"It was easier two years ago" Broos reflected. "Now I have competition in every position. That’s good problem to have"

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AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations