By: Saneliso Mlambo
South African winger Relebohile Mofokeng has won his first trophy in Europe after Royale Union Saint-Gilloise lifted the Belgian Super Cup. The former Orlando Pirates star came off the bench before converting the winning penalty in the shootout as Union edged Club Brugge to claim the season’s opening silverware.
Union Saint-Gilloise found themselves trailing during the match before fighting back to level the score and force a penalty shootout. Coach David Hubert introduced Mofokeng from the bench, and the 21-year-old played his part in the comeback before stepping up to score the decisive spot-kick that sealed the trophy.
The victory marks a dream competitive debut for Mofokeng, who completed his move from Orlando Pirates to the Belgian champions earlier this month after impressing for both club and country.
Winning a trophy in his first official appearance is an early statement from one of South Africa’s brightest young talents. Mofokeng will now turn his attention to helping Union Saint-Gilloise defend their league title and compete in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers after an unforgettable start to life in Belgium.