Relebohile Mofokeng Biography
At just 20 years old, Relebohile Mofokeng has already carved out a place among South Africa’s most exciting football prospects. His explosive pace, fearless creativity, and ability to turn games on their head have made him a fan favourite at Orlando Pirates and a growing force in the national team. More than just raw talent, Mofokeng embodies the rare combination of skill, mental toughness, and humility that marks a future football great.
Supporters describe him as “electric”, a player who can turn defence into attack in seconds, with a confidence under pressure that belies his young age. Watching him weave through defenders or deliver a perfectly timed assist has become a source of inspiration for many young players across the country. Mofokeng’s meteoric rise has been the result of talent meeting discipline, and while the spotlight shines brighter with each match, he appears more determined than ever to keep improving and elevate South African football.
From Sharpeville Streets to Football Schooling
Born Relebohile Ratomo on 23 October 2004 in the historic township of Sharpeville, Gauteng, Mofokeng grew up surrounded by the rhythms of street football. Football was more than a pastime; it was a way of life. His father, Sechaba, who once played professionally, introduced him early to the sport’s nuances, while his mother, Naomi, provided the emotional and financial support that fueled his dreams. The family’s deep connection to the game created a nurturing environment for his burgeoning talent.
Like many South African footballers, Mofokeng’s earliest pitches were dusty streets and open fields where makeshift goalposts made from bricks marked the boundaries. These humble beginnings honed his raw skills and tenacity. Friends from his neighborhood recall a boy who refused to stop playing, even after the sun had set and others had called it a day. His dedication was evident from an early age.
By his early teens, his speed, agility, close ball control, and sharp vision caught the eye of local scouts. He earned a place at the prestigious SAFA Transnet School of Excellence, an academy renowned for producing some of the country’s finest footballing talents. Here, Mofokeng’s natural flair was sharpened with structured training, tactical lessons, and exposure to national and international youth competitions. His technical abilities blossomed alongside a growing understanding of the game’s strategic demands.
In a deeply personal moment in 2023, after his parents officially tied the knot, he adopted the surname Mofokeng, a name he now wears with pride as both a personal and professional identity, symbolizing a new chapter in his life and career.
Breaking Through at Orlando Pirates
Mofokeng’s rapid progress through the ranks did not go unnoticed by the Orlando Pirates senior coaching staff. After impressive performances in the DSTV Diski Challenge, the club’s reserve league, he was handed his first-team debut in May 2023 against Royal AM. From the moment he stepped onto the pitch, it was clear that this was a player destined to make an impact.
Within days, he was making headlines with a goal and an assist in a commanding victory over AmaZulu, announcing his arrival on the big stage. From that point, he was no longer just a promising prospect; he was a game-changer. His direct dribbling style, combined with the ability to anticipate defenders’ moves, made him a nightmare to contain. Coaches praised his tactical awareness, while teammates admired his unselfish play.
Mofokeng quickly became a reliable option in crucial matches, contributing assists, drawing fouls in dangerous areas, and scoring decisive goals. His flair and composure under pressure helped Orlando Pirates clinch back-to-back MTN 8 titles as well as the coveted Nedbank Cup. More than just the trophies, his performances inspired a new generation of fans and gave the team fresh momentum.
Wearing the National Colours
His success at club level naturally caught the attention of the national selectors. Having represented South Africa at under-17 and under-20 levels with distinction, Mofokeng was soon called up to the senior Bafana Bafana squad. He made his senior debut in a high-stakes 2024 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, an occasion that marked the beginning of a promising international career.
In the months that followed, he scored his first international goal, winning widespread praise from fans and football analysts alike. His ability to rise to the occasion in important fixtures signalled that South Africa had a player capable of influencing matches on the continental and global stage. Mofokeng’s combination of speed, skill, and football intelligence positioned him as a cornerstone for the national team’s long-term ambitions, including upcoming African Cup of Nations and World Cup campaigns.
Accolades and Recognition
Despite his youth, Mofokeng’s trophy cabinet is already impressive. His list of honours includes:
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MTN 8 champion (2023–24, 2024–25)
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Nedbank Cup winner (2023–24)
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PSL Young Player of the Season (2024)
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Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player (2024)
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Gauteng Sports Personality of the Year (2024), an award that also came with a brand-new car.
These awards are more than just recognition of his technical talent; they acknowledge his consistent impact on the field, his professionalism, and his capacity to perform when the stakes are highest. Coaches emphasize his growth mindset and willingness to learn, traits that complement his natural abilities.
Life Off the Pitch
While many young athletes struggle to handle sudden fame and expectations, Mofokeng has remained grounded and focused. Those close to him describe a quiet, disciplined individual who approaches football as both a passion and a craft. He steers clear of unnecessary distractions, instead dedicating his free time to additional training, recovery, and spending quality moments with family.
One of the stories he shares most often is about his mother’s sacrifices, how she worked tirelessly to support his dreams, covering school fees and travel expenses even when times were tough. This personal history drives his determination; each game he plays is a tribute to the people who believed in him when few others did.
Earnings and Future Prospects
By 2025, Mofokeng’s monthly salary was estimated at around R250,000, supplemented by endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, plus various performance-related bonuses. His current net worth is estimated to be between R5 million and R8 million, an impressive sum for a player so early in his career.
Rather than indulging in flashy purchases, Mofokeng has shown financial prudence. He has invested wisely, owning a Volkswagen Polo GTI and property assets, indicating his focus on building long-term security beyond football. This maturity off the pitch suggests a player thinking well ahead, planning for life after his playing days are over.
Transfer rumours linking him to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq and clubs in Europe’s mid-tier leagues have persisted. A move abroad could be the next pivotal step in his career, offering exposure to different playing styles and challenges. Such a transition would also place him among South African footballers who have successfully tested themselves internationally, potentially opening doors for more South African talents to follow.
The Road Ahead
Whether Mofokeng remains to lead Orlando Pirates into a new era of dominance or embarks on an overseas adventure, his story is far from complete. His trajectory suggests the coming years could be even more spectacular than his breakout seasons. With a blend of youthful flair and professional mindset, he is a beacon of hope for South African football’s future.
Fans, teammates, and coaches alike believe that as long as he continues to work hard, stay grounded, and nurture his talent, Relebohile Mofokeng has the potential to stand alongside Africa’s footballing greats. From the dusty streets of Sharpeville to packed stadiums and international arenas, his journey inspires belief that greatness can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and heart.
