Former Pirates Star Mofokeng Scoops Major Award

Former Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng has added another prestigious individual award to his growing collection after being named the 2026 South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA) Men Footballer of the Year.

The 22-year-old Bafana Bafana international received the recognition following an outstanding 2025/26 season in which he played a crucial role in Orlando Pirates’ successful campaign before completing his transition to Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

Mofokeng enjoyed an impressive season with the Buccaneers, registering 11 goals and nine assists in 36 appearances across competitions. His contributions proved instrumental in helping the Soweto giants secure a domestic treble, further establishing him as one of the most exciting talents in South African football.

His latest achievement adds to an already impressive collection of individual honours. During the previous PSL awards ceremony, Mofokeng walked away with the PSL Footballer of the Season, Betway Premiership Players’ Player of the Season and Betway Premiership Young Player of the Season awards.

The SAFJA recognition represents another significant milestone in his career, particularly because it came against strong competition from Teboho Mokoena, Oswin Appollis and Lebone Seema.

Mofokeng’s remarkable rise has attracted considerable attention, with his performances for Pirates earning him an opportunity to continue his development in European football. His move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise represents an important step as he looks to establish himself at a higher level.

Meanwhile, Leandra Smeda of TS Galaxy Queens was named the 2026 SAFJA Women Footballer of the Year.

Other winners included Njabulo Ngidi of Media24, who collected both Journalist of the Year and Written Journalist of the Year. Mpho Maboi won Broadcast Journalist of the Year, while Kamogelo Motecwane received Young Journalist of the Year. Sydney Mahlangu was recognised as Photo Journalist of the Year.

Mofokeng’s latest award further confirms his growing influence and status as one of South Africa’s leading footballers.

Mofokeng Wins Big Award

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