Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou delighted as former midfielder Mofokeng scores on European debut

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed his delight after former midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng marked his European debut with a goal for Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise.

Mofokeng, who made the move to Europe after impressing during his time with Orlando Pirates, opened his European account when Union Saint-Gilloise faced Viktoria Plzen in the UEFA Europa League.

While Ouaddou is currently focused on guiding Orlando Pirates through the Betway Premiership campaign, the Moroccan coach admitted that Mofokeng’s achievement holds a special place in his heart.

The Pirates coach previously worked with the talented midfielder and has continued to follow his progress since his departure from the South African club.

Ouaddou believes Mofokeng’s ambition and attacking mentality were among the qualities that helped him stand out during his time at Pirates.

“But coming back to Rele Mofokeng, I have a big heart with my players,” Ouaddou said.

“He’s the example we have to follow. If we are ambitious, this boy was very ambitious. All that he was doing in our team it was all the time forward.

“So I’m happy for him, I hope he’s going to continue. It’s very good for the club as well, a very good image of the brand Orlando Pirates in Europe.”

Mofokeng’s goal represents another important milestone in what has been a rapid rise for the young South African, who has attracted considerable attention for his technical ability, creativity and willingness to take responsibility in the final third.

For Ouaddou, the midfielder’s European breakthrough is not only a personal achievement but also a source of pride for Orlando Pirates. The coach believes Mofokeng’s performances on the continental stage can enhance the reputation of the Soweto giants and demonstrate the quality of talent produced by the club.

The Pirates coach also highlighted the importance of ambition, using Mofokeng’s development as an example for his current players. According to Ouaddou, the midfielder consistently looked to play forward and make an impact whenever he featured for the club.

His latest achievement in Belgium could therefore serve as further motivation for young players at Orlando Pirates who aspire to make the step from South African football to Europe.

While Ouaddou remains focused on Pirates’ domestic campaign, where the club currently hold a four-point advantage over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership, the coach took time to celebrate the progress of a player he previously worked with.

Mofokeng will now hope to build on his impressive European start and establish himself further at Union Saint-Gilloise, while Ouaddou will continue to monitor the midfielder’s progress from South Africa.