South Africa's Youth Day spotlight shines on Bafana Bafana's emerging stars

IOL News

a day ago

DUBBED the Cocomelons and one of them as the President of the Year 2000s, Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Ntoka are among the youngsters lighting up the local football scene. | BackpagePix
As South Africa commemorates Youth Day on 16 June, a wave of youthful talent has emerged in the nation's football landscape.
These young players are not just taking the pitch by storm, but also igniting hopes for Bafana Bafana as they prepare for pivotal tournaments such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) later this year in December.
This Youth Day, we highlight the promising prospects that South Africa has to offer. These young athletes showcase not only their skill on the ball but also a commitment to uplift the national team to new heights. The infusion of fresh talent into Bafana Bafana is indeed a reason for optimism for the team's future successes on the international stage.
Among the talented youths making waves, we spotlight a few key players whose performances are turning heads and capturing the imagination of supporters and selectors.
1 Mbekezeli Mbokazi (19 years, Orlando Pirates)
At just 19 years old, Mbokazi has swiftly made his mark in South African football, gaining recognition as a leading contender for the left centre-back position in Bafana Bafana. National team coach Hugo Broos had long expressed the urgent need for a left-footed centre-back, and in Mbokazi, he may have found just the answer. During a recent match against Mozambique, he made his national debut, showcasing an impressive understanding of the game that belied his youth. Alongside club teammate Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbokazi's performance in the rearguard was outstanding. His ascent was not merely about opportunity; his innate talent and potential were evident as he demonstrated solid defensive skills, comfort on the ball, and the ability to be a significant threat during set pieces. Despite not being the tallest of defenders, Mbokazi's aerial prowess often defies expectations, illustrating how skill and determination can triumph over physical limitations on the pitch. The young talent was a revelation upon joining the Orlando Pirates first team last season.
2 Luke le Roux (25 years, Värnamo, Sweden)
Injuries have limited his appearances for Bafana Bafana recently. However, this Sweden-based tenacious midfielder has showcased his technical skills, positioning him as an invaluable asset for Bafana Bafana as they prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers. Known as a 'box-to-box' midfielder, he is blessed with a rare blend of physical strength, stamina, and an unyielding work ethic. His ability to seamlessly transition between defensive duties and offensive thrusts has shaped the dynamics of his club, Varnamo. This kind of versatility is important on the international stage. In the two friendlies, Le Roux showed exceptional ball control, and in the midfield, he kept the squad positioned to take the offensive while remaining organised defensively. His impressive aerial skills enable him to excel in duels, augmenting both defence and attack capabilities. Every touch of the ball demonstrates his tactical intelligence, making intelligent decisions that shift the momentum during tight encounters.
3 Sinoxolo Kwayiba (25 years, Chippa United)
In the recent friendly against Mozambique, Kwayiba demonstrated his burgeoning talent and will be in the conversation ahead of Bafana Bafana's upcoming fixtures. In the 2024 COSAFA Cup in Port Elizabeth, Kwayiba made his Bafana Bafana debut and marked the occasion with a goal that dazzled fans and critics alike. From the opening whistle, Kwayiba's energy was infectious. His lively footwork and keen sense of positioning constantly tested the Mozambique goalkeeper, who faced a barrage of shots from the South African. Kwayiba's journey with the national team and his impending move to one of South Africa's most storied clubs presents a significant opportunity for growth. His performance in the friendly could act as a springboard, allowing him to harness the skills he exhibited against Mozambique and refine them further in the competitive Premier Soccer League. As he gears up to join the ranks of Orlando Pirates next season, Kwayiba stands out as a promising asset who, while he may currently serve as a valuable option off the bench, has the potential to become a defining player as he gains experience and matures in his game.
4 Mohau Nkota (20 years, Orlando Pirates)
Few young players have captured the attention of South African fans quite like Mohau Nkota. Known for his electrifying speed, technical prowess, and powerful left foot, the Pirates winger has swiftly begun carving a niche for himself in professional football. Nkota's ability was apparent from an early age. Rising through the ranks of Pirates' youth system, his impressive performances in the Diski Challenge showcased his potential, leading to his promotion to the first team. It is here that he began to make strides, flashing glimpses of brilliance with his pace and dribbling ability, drawing comparisons with some of the nation's best wingers. Nkota has demonstrated a knack for converting chances into goals, contributing not just with crucial goals but also with assists for his teammates, thereby influencing the game's outcome as a crucial playmaker.
5 Relebohile Mofokeng (20 years, Orlando Pirates)
Mofokeng stands out as the brightest star on the national football horizon. Playing as a winger for Pirates, Mofokeng has captured the attention of fans and scouts alike with his impressive skills and remarkable speed. With an innate ability, he stands out as a forward who not only boasts strong ball control but also has the agility to leave defenders in his wake. Mofokeng's agility is complemented by his pace, which he uses to work his way past defenders. This helps to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. What sets Mofokeng apart, however, is intelligent off-the-ball movement. He understands how to position himself strategically, often finding spaces that others overlook, making him a constant threat even when the ball is not at his feet. He is a true competitor at heart; he is not afraid to take risks. Whether it's attempting a daring dribble or playing a central role when necessary, his confidence showcases a maturity beyond his years. He readily adapts wherever the coach needs him, whether on the left or right wing, reinforcing his commitment to the team's success.