Ouaddou Praises Mofokeng Hat-Trick Heroics In Pirates Rout
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou lauded young star Relebohile Mofokeng after his outstanding hat-trick performance inspired a dominant Betway Premiership victory against TS Galaxy that sent the Buccaneers back to the top of the league standings.
Pirates delivered a statement performance on Sunday, thrashing hapless Galaxy 6-0, with Mofokeng stealing the spotlight through a sensational display that underlined his growing importance to the team.
The 21-year-old forward not only netted his first top-flight hat-trick since the 2022/23 season, where he made his debut, but also walked away with the Man of the Match award after a complete attacking performance.
Speaking after the match, Ouaddou emphasized the significance of Mofokeng’s display for both the player and the club.
“I think it is important for him, but it is also important for the club as well,” said Ouaddou.
“The boy scoring a hat-trick will give him strength and confidence to see that he can definitely perform at a high level.
“So, it is good for him and for us in terms of goal difference, and these three goals have to show him that it is not the end; he has to keep on working, and we can see this in the future as well.”
Mofokeng’s return to top form has been a key boost for Pirates in their title charge.
The reigning Young Player of the Season had a slow start to the current campaign but rediscovered his rhythm in November during Matchday 14 against Durban City, where he claimed his first Man of the Match award of the season.
Since then, his performances have steadily improved, and he began 2026 in electrifying fashion – consistently scoring and assisting, and even earned the Player of the Month award for January/February.
His latest accolade means Mofokeng now leads the Man of the Match standings this season with five awards, overtaking Bright Ndlovu of Sekhukhune United, who had held the lead with four.
In terms of numbers, Mofokeng has been equally impressive, registering seven goals and five assists in 19 league appearances, further highlighting his attacking influence.
The result also sees Pirates reclaim top spot in the Betway Premiership with 51 points, sitting just one point ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who have 50 points and a game in hand.
While Pirates will now pause their domestic campaign due to the FIFA international break, Mofokeng’s momentum will continue on the international stage. The young star has been included in the Bafana Bafana squad set to face Panama in two friendly matches later this month.
Following his national team duties, Mofokeng will return to club action when Pirates face Golden Arrows on 7 April, where he will be eager to maintain his impressive form and continue driving the Buccaneers’ title ambitions.
