Mofokeng Hat-Trick Masterclass Powers Pirates to 6–0 Rout – But His Post-Match Revelation Says Even More
Relebohile Mofokeng stole the spotlight on Sunday afternoon with a sensational hat-trick as Orlando Pirates dismantled TS Galaxy 6–0 in a one-sided Betway Premiership clash at the Mbombela Stadium.
The emphatic victory not only marked Pirates’ biggest win of the season but also saw them reclaim top spot in the league standings with 51 points, edging ahead of defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who still have a game in hand.
The match took a decisive turn within the opening minutes. TS Galaxy were reduced to 10 men just five minutes in after Lentswe Motaung was shown a red card for bringing down Tshepang Moremi.
From that moment, Pirates seized full control – and never looked back.
Just a minute later, Mofokeng announced himself in spectacular fashion, curling in a stunning free-kick in the sixth minute to give the visitors an early lead.
With the numerical advantage, Pirates turned the contest into a relentless attacking display.
Tshepang Moremi added a second in the 41st minute, before pressure from the Buccaneers forced an own goal from Mlungisi Mbunjana on the stroke of halftime.
Mofokeng returned after the break to complete his hat-trick with two well-taken goals, showcasing composure and precision in front of goal. Kamogelo Sebelebele then capped off the dominant performance with another strike to complete the 6–0 rout.
Speaking to Pirates media after the match, Mofokeng revealed that his standout performance was the result of deliberate extra work on the training ground – particularly in response to recent criticism around finishing.
“I think we are just improving in front of goal, and that’s what we did,” Mofokeng said. “During the week I was practising after training, staying alone and working on my finishing. I think I worked hard for this hat-trick.”
The 21-year-old also emphasised the importance of composure in front of goal, suggesting that continued improvement in this area could prove decisive as the season progresses.
“I just have to relax in front of goal. I think I will score more goals when I’m composed,” he added.
The result underlines Pirates’ growing attacking confidence at a crucial stage of the campaign. After questions earlier in the season about their efficiency in the final third, this performance offered a powerful response.
With 51 points on the board, Pirates have taken control at the top of the Betway Premiership table – at least for now – as the title race with Sundowns intensifies.
If Sunday’s ruthless display is any indication, the Buccaneers are not just chasing the title – they are beginning to assert themselves as serious contenders with momentum firmly on their side.
Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng scored his first professional hat-trick in a 6-0 thrashing of TS Galaxy (Image: Orlando Pirates)