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Relebohile Mofokeng Makes An Impact: Bafana Star Helps Union SG Crush Nijlen To Reach Belgian Cup Last 16
South African football sensation Relebohile Mofokeng has continued his European adventure with another encouraging performance, helping Royale Union Saint-Gilloise secure a 3-0 victory over KFC Nijlen in the Belgian Cup on Sunday, 18 October 2026.
The Bafana Bafana attacker came off the bench in the second half as the defending champions eventually found their breakthrough against a determined Nijlen side. The victory secured Union SG’s place in the Round of 16, keeping their hopes of defending the Belgian Cup firmly alive.
Despite their status as one of Belgium’s leading teams, Union SG had to show patience before breaking down their lower-division opponents. Nijlen defended with commitment and organisation, frustrating the hosts for much of the contest.
For Mofokeng, the appearance provided another opportunity to gain valuable minutes as he continues adapting to European football following his move from Orlando Pirates.
Union SG entered the match as favourites, but Nijlen proved difficult to overcome during the opening stages. The visitors worked hard to close down space and prevent the hosts from creating clear opportunities.
The home side enjoyed periods of pressure, yet Nijlen’s defensive organisation kept the score level at half-time. Union needed greater urgency and precision in the final third to turn their possession into goals.
Head coach David Hubert responded by introducing fresh players during the second half, including Mofokeng, as Union searched for the breakthrough.
The changes eventually helped the hosts increase their attacking threat and put the visitors under sustained pressure.
The deadlock was finally broken around the 70th minute when Raul Florucz finished after a delivery from Dylan Aquino. The goal eased the pressure on Union and forced Nijlen to take greater risks.
Union then extended their advantage in the 80th minute. Mofokeng made an important contribution to the move, driving into space and beating his opponent before cutting the ball back for Besfort Zeneli to finish.
The South African’s involvement helped turn a tense cup tie into a more comfortable finish for the defending champions.
Kamiel Van de Perre added the third goal in the 83rd minute, completing the 3-0 victory and confirming Union SG’s progression to the last 16.
Although Nijlen ultimately fell short, their disciplined performance kept the contest competitive for much of the afternoon.
Mofokeng’s latest appearance adds to an encouraging start in Belgium after leaving Orlando Pirates. The young attacker has been adjusting to a new league, different tactical demands and increased competition for places.
His ability to carry the ball forward and create opportunities makes him an option for Union when they need to change the tempo of a match. His contribution against Nijlen demonstrated the value of making an impact even when introduced from the bench.
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