As Bafana Bafana gear up for their upcoming international friendlies against Tanzania and Mozambique, national team coach Hugo Broos has voiced his support for three rising stars from Orlando Pirates looking to make their mark abroad.
Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota (both 20), and Mbekezeli Mbokazi (19) have all impressed this season, earning spots in Broos’ final 23-man squad. However, the seasoned Belgian tactician is urging caution when it comes to their potential moves to Europe.
Mofokeng, a 20-year-old sensation, has become a pivotal player for Pirates, contributing significantly to the team’s success across various competitions. Spanish giants Barcelona have reportedly expressed interest in both Mofokeng and Nkota, while Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly are believed to be monitoring Mbokazi.
Bafana Bafana squad for the International friendlies against Tanzania and Mozambique.#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/HJHtOF1eUo
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Underpinning his impact, Mofokeng has netted 18 goals and provided 22 assists in 89 appearances, also securing several domestic trophies since bursting onto the scene.
Broos has emphasised the importance of choosing the right club – one that offers regular game time and space for development.
“The only advice I can give to Mofokeng is that he must make the right choice. That’s the only advice,” said Broos.
“Going to Europe is good, but try to make the right choice because if you go to a club where you don’t have a chance to play, I think it’s better to stay for one more year with Pirates. So, that’s up to the player, his family, and his agent. I hope that his agent is looking at the future of the player and not his wallet.”
Broos highlighted the crucial role agents play in guiding young players through these pivotal career decisions – particularly amid heightened international interest and the sensitive transition to senior-level football abroad.
Reflecting on the case of Shandre Campbell (formerly of SuperSport United), who recently moved to Club Brugge in Belgium, Broos pointed out the risks of relocating prematurely. Though Campbell is not in Brugge’s first team, he is gaining valuable experience in the Belgian second division.
“I see what’s happening with Shandre at Brugge. He is not playing with the first team, but he is playing in the second division in Belgium,” said Broos.
“Brugge’s second team is playing in the second division. That’s the toughest division, I can assure you, and I’m sure that he is making progress too. That is the most important thing.
“So, when I say ‘choose the good club’, it doesn’t mean he has to play directly in the first team, but he must play at a good level. I hope that if all those players go to Europe, they go to the right club.”
Broos remains firm that while these players are undoubtedly talented, their decisions must prioritise long-term growth over prestige or immediate exposure.
As Bafana Bafana head into the friendlies, all eyes will be on the promising Pirates trio – and the conversation will inevitably turn to whether they are truly ready for the rigours of European football.
The first match is set for Friday against Tanzania at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo. The second fixture, against Mozambique, takes place next Tuesday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
