Bafana Bafana youngster Relebohile Mofokeng featured as a second-half substitute when Royale Union Saint-Gilloise secured a convincing 3-0 victory over KFC Nijlen in the Belgian Cup on Sunday afternoon. The result saw the defending champions progress to the Round of 16 as they continue their attempt to retain the trophy they won last season.

Royale Union SG had to be patient before finding a breakthrough against KFC Nijlen, with the match still goalless when Mofokeng was introduced in the 64th minute. The South African winger came on as his team searched for a goal that would put them in control of the contest.

It took just five minutes after his introduction for the hosts to open the scoring. Raul Florucz found the back of the net in the 69th minute to give Royale Union SG the lead and ease the pressure on the home side.

The Belgian outfit continued to push forward after taking the lead and eventually increased their advantage in the closing stages. Besfort Zeneli scored in the 80th minute to make it 2-0 before Kamiel Van de Perre added the third goal three minutes later.

The three goals ensured that Royale Union SG avoided an upset and secured their place in the next round of the competition. As the reigning champions, they will be determined to continue their cup campaign and defend the title they won last season.

Mofokeng's appearance was another opportunity for the former Orlando Pirates winger to gain valuable experience in Belgian football. The Bafana Bafana international has been working to establish himself at Royale Union SG since making the move from South Africa.

The 21-year-old was also involved in the club's UEFA Europa League fixture against Spanish side Real Sociedad earlier in the week. Unlike his role in the Belgian Cup, Mofokeng started that encounter and played the entire 90 minutes as Royale Union SG secured a 1-1 draw.

His involvement in both matches provides him with further opportunities to adapt to the demands of European football while competing for a regular place in the team. Continued performances at club level could also help him maintain his position in the Bafana Bafana setup.

Royale Union SG will now turn their attention to the Europa League, where they are scheduled to face Hapoel Be’er Sheva on Thursday, 22 October. Mofokeng will be hoping to feature again as the Belgian side prepares for another important match in its European campaign.

Source : IDiskiTimes