Relebohile Mofokeng has already established himself as an important part of the Bafana Bafana setup, and his recent form could make him one of South Africa’s key players against Guinea.
The 21-year-old has started Bafana’s last two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, gaining valuable experience on the biggest international stage.
With South Africa now beginning their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign, there is a strong case for giving Mofokeng another starting opportunity.
Mofokeng’s rapid rise continues
Mofokeng made his World Cup debut against the Czech Republic in Bafana’s second group match, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
His performance earned him another start in South Africa’s final group fixture against South Korea.
The young attacker has continued to develop rapidly since establishing himself at Orlando Pirates, where his performances earned him both the Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards.
His move to Belgian club Union SG has provided another important step in his development.
Mofokeng has already scored four goals in nine appearances across all competitions for the Belgian side, giving him an encouraging platform heading into the international break.
Why Mofokeng could be important against Guinea
South Africa could face a different tactical challenge against Guinea.
If the visitors adopt a compact defensive shape, Bafana may need players who can operate between the lines, move defenders around and create opportunities in tight spaces.
That is where Mofokeng’s technical ability could become particularly valuable.
His vision, passing and ability to receive the ball in advanced areas give him the tools to influence the game without necessarily having to remain stationed on the wing.
Giving him freedom to move across the attacking third could allow him to combine with Bafana’s other attacking players and create gaps in the Guinea defence.
Mofokeng can offer Bafana another attacking dimension
The youngster’s current club form should also give him confidence.
Four goals in nine matches for Union SG represents a positive return, and Bafana will hope he can translate that attacking threat to the international stage.
Mofokeng is still waiting for a defining performance in a Bafana shirt, but the Guinea fixture could provide an opportunity to take another step forward.
At just 21, he already has significant experience within the national-team environment and is now gaining regular exposure to European football.
That combination could make him an increasingly influential figure for South Africa.
Where should Mofokeng play?
The biggest question may not be whether Mofokeng should feature, but where he can have the greatest impact.
Starting him in an advanced attacking role would give him the freedom to drift inside, receive possession between the lines and combine with teammates.
Against a potentially organised Guinea defence, those qualities could prove useful.
Bafana do not necessarily need Mofokeng to carry the attack on his own. Instead, allowing him to operate with greater freedom could give South Africa another route to goal.
Should Rele start against Guinea?
Mofokeng’s recent form, European experience and growing international exposure make a starting role a compelling tactical option.
The Guinea match could be another important step in his development — and an opportunity for the young attacker to show that he can become one of the central figures in Bafana’s next generation.
Bafana Bafana host Guinea on Saturday at Orlando Stadium, with the AFCON qualifier scheduled for a 15:00 kick-off.
Should Relebohile Mofokeng start against Guinea?
