Relebohile Mofokeng is wasting no time making his mark in Belgium, with the former Orlando Pirates star already finding the net twice in his first five appearances for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
The 21-year-old has made an encouraging start to life in Europe since leaving Pirates, with his latest goal adding to the growing signs that he is adapting quickly to his new surroundings.
Mofokeng’s goals are particularly significant given the size of the adjustment he has had to make.
He arrived in Belgium after establishing himself as one of the most exciting young players in the Betway Premiership, where he became accustomed to being one of Pirates’ most influential attacking players.
At Union SG, the landscape is different.
He has had to adapt to a new country, a different tactical environment and increased competition for places, while learning what is required to succeed consistently in European football.
So far, the early returns have been encouraging.
Mofokeng’s ability to carry the ball, attack defenders and create opportunities was already well established during his time at Pirates. The challenge was always going to be whether he could translate those qualities to a different level of the game.
Two goals in five appearances suggest he is beginning to do exactly that.
The next step, however, is consistency.
Mofokeng will want to turn this promising beginning into a sustained run of performances and establish himself as an important attacking option for Union SG.
That will ultimately be a better measure of how successful his move has been than the early goals alone.
His progress is also worth watching from a Bafana Bafana perspective.
Mofokeng already has international experience and was part of South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, meaning he enters Pitso Mosimane’s new era with an established place in the national-team conversation.
Regular football and strong performances in Belgium could strengthen that position.
At 21, Mofokeng has plenty of time to develop, and playing regularly in Europe could expose him to the tactical demands and intensity that can further shape his game.
For now, though, the focus is on Union SG.
Two goals in five appearances is a positive start for a player embarking on his first European adventure.
Mofokeng left Pirates looking for the next challenge in his career.
Early evidence suggests he is embracing it.
