Why Relebohile Mofokeng should start against Guinea

Relebohile Mofokeng has started Bafana Bafana’s last two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the young attacker is making a strong case for a more prominent role in the national team.

The 21-year-old made his World Cup debut against the Czech Republic in Bafana’s second group match, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

The Royal Union SG attacker impressed on his first appearance and was rewarded with another start against South Korea in the final group match.

Mofokeng played an instrumental role as Bafana secured qualification for the last 32, further underlining his growing importance to the national team.

His rise has been rapid. After a standout season with Orlando Pirates, where he won both the Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards, Mofokeng has increasingly become one of the faces of South African football.

His move to Belgium has also paid off. Mofokeng has already scored four goals in nine appearances across all competitions for Union SG, giving him confidence heading into the next stage of his international career.

Where should Mofokeng start?

Against Guinea, Mofokeng could be particularly valuable in an attacking role.

Guinea are likely to sit deep and attempt to frustrate Bafana, meaning South Africa could need players capable of breaking down a compact defence. Mofokeng’s vision, passing range and ability to find space could make him an important player in that situation.

Rather than simply using him as a wide player, Bafana could benefit from giving President yama 2k greater freedom in the attacking third.

His ability to receive the ball between the lines, combine with teammates and create opportunities could provide South Africa with another dimension going forward.

There is also the confidence that comes with his current form. Four goals in nine games for Union SG is an encouraging return, and Mofokeng should believe he can contribute on the scoresheet for Bafana as well.

He is yet to produce a truly outstanding performance for the national team, but this could be the ideal opportunity to change that.

At 21, Mofokeng already has two years of experience within the Bafana setup and is now playing regularly in Europe. His development suggests he is ready to take on greater responsibility.

Against Guinea, giving him a starting role in an attacking position could allow him to showcase his creativity while giving Bafana another player capable of unlocking a stubborn defence.

The question is no longer whether Mofokeng belongs in the Bafana setup. It is how best to use his qualities.

Bafana host Guinea on Saturday afrernoon at the Orlando Amstel Arena. The Afcon qualifying match will kickoff at 15:00.