He Proved Hugo Broos Wrong”: Benni McCarthy Hails Mofokeng After Stunning European Breakthrough

BENNI MCCARTHY TAKES AIM AT BROOS AS MOFOKENG PROVES HIS DOUBTERS WRONG IN EUROPE

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 11 NOVEMBER 2026

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has praised South African sensation Relebohile Mofokeng for proving his critics wrong after making an impressive start to his European football career with Belgian outfit Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

The former Bafana Bafana striker believes Mofokeng has answered one of his biggest critics, former South African national team coach Hugo Broos, who previously expressed doubts about whether the youngster’s physical build would allow him to succeed in European football.

Mofokeng, 22, secured a move to Belgium at the beginning of the current campaign after an outstanding spell with Orlando Pirates. His contribution to the Buccaneers’ successful treble-winning season earned him widespread recognition, including the PSL Player of the Season award.

Since arriving in Belgium, the attacking midfielder has wasted little time demonstrating his quality. He has registered five goals and four assists in 15 appearances for Union SG, establishing himself as an exciting prospect in European football.

Speaking during an interview with SportyTV, McCarthy openly expressed his admiration for the youngster’s achievements.

“I think the biggest compliment I can give the boy is that he proved Hugo Broos wrong,” McCarthy said.

The Harambee Stars coach explained that Broos had previously questioned Mofokeng’s physique, suggesting that his small frame and slender build could make it difficult for him to compete at European level.

However, McCarthy believes the youngster has demonstrated that determination, confidence and footballing ability can overcome such doubts.

He described Mofokeng as a survivor who can adapt to uncomfortable situations and emerge stronger.

McCarthy also challenged the young attacker to maintain his current standards rather than becoming comfortable with his early success.

According to the former Champions League winner, Mofokeng must make his first European season memorable enough to attract opportunities at even bigger clubs.

He believes playing for Union SG, a club competing in Belgium’s top division and European competitions, provides an excellent platform for further development.

Meanwhile, Mofokeng’s progress comes at an important time for South African football, with Bafana Bafana preparing for upcoming AFCON qualifying encounters against Kenya, coached by McCarthy himself.

The youngster’s performances abroad have given South African supporters another reason to believe in the country’s emerging generation of football talent.

For McCarthy, however, the biggest achievement is seeing Mofokeng respond to criticism with performances rather than arguments.

The message is simple: the young South African must keep working, keep believing and continue proving that he belongs among Europe’s rising football stars.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2120403902663147838

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