The rapid ascent of Orlando Pirates star Relebohile “Rele” Mofokeng is
serving as a powerful motivator for his childhood rival, Kaizer Chiefs’
promising striker Naledi Hlongwane.
Hlongwane is part of a group of Amakhosi DDC players embarking on a
rewarding tour of the United Kingdom following their triumphant DStv Diski
Challenge season. The squad is set to test themselves against the Under-21
sides of Manchester United, Leeds United, and Queens Park Rangers—a trip
focused on growth, development, and invaluable international exposure.
For Hlongwane, this opportunity is the culmination of a journey fueled by a
very personal inspiration. Speaking before his departure, the teenager
revealed that watching Mofokeng’s breakthrough at Pirates pushed him to
elevate his own game.
“We used to play against each other in primary school; we grew up as
rivals,” Hlongwane shared. “Seeing his success truly motivated me. I
thought, ‘This is a guy I came up with from childhood, and now he’s a
regular in the first team of a giant like Pirates.'”
That connection made Mofokeng’s success a tangible source of belief for
Hlongwane. Witnessing someone from a similar background thrive at the
highest level proved that his own dreams were within reach.
“It inspired me to push myself to the limit,” Hlongwane explained. “Knowing
we shared the same struggles makes me want to work even harder to earn my
place in the Kaizer Chiefs first team.”
Reflecting on his own path, the Vaal-born striker described his recent
achievements as a dream coming to life.
“This is a dream come true. I’ve been praying for this since I was a little
kid playing in the streets,” he observed. “When I look back at where I was
just five years ago, I see a massive difference. That progress drives me
every single day in training to become a better player and person.”
