THE ‘RELE’ REVOLUTION: Why Mofokeng is deadlier as a Number 10

Orlando Pirates’ rising sensation Relebohile ‘Rele’ Mofokeng has finally lifted the lid on his tactical evolution, admitting that his move into a central playmaking role has unlocked a new level of “freedom” in his game.

The Bafana Bafana international was once again the architect of destruction on Tuesday night, walking away with his second consecutive Man of the Match award after inspiring the Buccaneers to a 2-0 victory over AmaZulu FC. The result officially catapulted Pirates to the summit of the Betway Premiership standings.

Traditionally used to hug the touchline, ‘Rele’ has undergone a transformation under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. While his pace made him a threat on the flanks, his move to the “Number 10” position has turned him into a nightmare for PSL defenders to track.

‘THE LINES LIMIT YOU’ – REEL MOFOKENG

Speaking after his masterclass at Moses Mabhida Stadium, the 21-year-old explained why the central channel feels like home.

“I think there, in position 10, there is freedom. On the wing, you are close to the lines, so it kind of limits your play,” Mofokeng told SuperSport TV.

“But in position 10, there is so much free space, and you are able to create a lot of chances. I think I’m free because of the freedom that comes with it.”

His stats back up the claim. After a standout performance against Magesi FC, Mofokeng followed up in Durban by scoring the early opener and effectively forcing the late own-goal that sealed the points.

OUADDOU’S TACTICAL MASTERSTROKE

Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is fully aware that he has a “diamond” on his hands. While acknowledging Rele Mofokeng’s versatility, the Pirates mentor insists that the central role is where the youngster’s “best qualities” are magnified.

“You know, he has played in many positions because he is talented,” Ouaddou noted. “But for us, it is important to identify as a tactician where he is able to produce the best. Since we made him play in the middle, he has been able to give assists and score goals. We have to keep him there.”

With the Buccaneers now sitting pretty with 36 points after 15 matches, the “Rele Mofokeng Experiment” has officially become the standard blueprint for Pirates’ attack. As long as “Captain yama2000” has the license to roam, the Sea Robbers look like the team to beat in the race for the title.