‘He was joking’ – Mofokeng’s mother apologises to Kaizer Chiefs fans

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‘He was joking’ – Mofokeng’s mother apologises to Kaizer Chiefs fans
Relebohile Mofokeng in training with Bafana Bafana. Image: Imago

Naomi Mofokeng, the mother of Bafana Bafana star Relebohile Mofokeng, has issued an apology to Kaizer Chiefs supporters following her son’s light-hearted joke during his farewell from Orlando Pirates.

The 21-year-old recently secured a four-year contract with Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise, concluding his successful tenure with the Buccaneers. At a farewell dinner held in his honour, Mofokeng couldn’t help but take a friendly swipe at Pirates’ Soweto rivals.

Relebohile Mofokeng when he was unveiled by Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
Relebohile Mofokeng when he was unveiled by Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Photo: Royale Union Saint-Gilloise

“I am going to keep it short,” Mofokeng stated in his speech. “I will only say that I will make all of you proud. I will do everything I can, just like I did at Pirates.”

Mofokeng took a swipe at Chiefs

He then added with a laugh, “And… yeah, I think Kaizer Chiefs can breathe now that I am no longer there.”

The comment generated a mixed response online. While many fans recognised it as harmless banter typical of the Soweto Derby rivalry, some Amakhosi supporters took offence.

In an effort to smooth things over, Naomi Mofokeng apologised on her son’s behalf, stressing that no disrespect was intended.

Relebohile Mofokeng of Orlando Pirates and Aden McCarthy of Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby
Relebohile Mofokeng of Orlando Pirates and Aden McCarthy of Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby. Photo -Kaizer Chiefs

Naomi defends her son’s utterances

“He was joking, and he was even laughing,” she explained. “You all know Relebohile is humble and respects people. Askies, Makhosi. Love you so much.”

Relebohile Mofokeng is set to travel to Belgium soon to join Royal Union Saint-Gilloise for their pre-season training. He departs Orlando Pirates having made a significant contribution, scoring 29 goals and providing 31 assists, in 125 senior appearances.

The playmaker played a crucial role as Pirates ending their 14-year wait for a league title and also contributed in their MTN8 and Carling Knockout wins.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a sports journalist covering South Africa, with 16 years in sports media and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication. Focused on football analysis and responsible gambling, his work has appeared on GOAL and Pulse Sports Kenya, and he is a regular football analyst on TV and radio.

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