SEDIBENG.- South African fans had to wait yet again as Bafana Bafana forward Relebohile Mofokeng started on the bench for his Belgian side, Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, during their 3-0 derby win over RSC Anderlecht on Saturday night.

The Sharpeville-born star entered the match in the 87^th minute, continuing a pattern of substitute appearances since his transfer from Orlando Pirates following Bafana’s exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Club insiders revealed that the coaching staff is exercising patience with the young talent and prefers not to rush his development.

Sources told Sedibeng Ster Sport the club is currently focusing on improving Mofokeng’s physical condition and strength.

This approach aligns with earlier warnings from Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who previously noted that Belgian football demands high physical strength. Broos told the media that the club would spend the first six months building up Mofokeng’s physique before he becomes a regular starter.

His continued use as a substitute suggests Broos was correct.

Broos faced heavy criticism for those remarks at the time, as many supporters argued that Mofokeng did not need extra physical conditioning to compete at that level. However, his continued use as a substitute suggests Broos was correct, though Mofokeng has still managed to impress in every cameo appearance.

The main concern moving forward is match fitness, particularly with the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier round squad announcement approaching, which requires players to have regular time on the pitch.