Bafana, Chiefs legend hails sensational Mofokeng

Former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana midfielder Stanton Fredericks has praised the importance of Relebohile Mofokeng's introduction to Bafana during a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Czechia on Thursday.

Bafana resurrected their FIFA World Cup ambitions with a fighting 1-1 draw against Czechia in Atlanta.

Hugo Broos’ men looked down after a rapid six-minute opener by Michal Sadilek. However, an improved second-half display saw Teboho Mokoena calmly slot home an 83rd-minute penalty to secure South Africa's first tournament point.

In large credit, the turning point was the half-time introduction of Orlando Pirates sensation Relebohile Mofokeng for Jayden Adams. The 21-year-old had been overlooked for the opening 2-0 defeat against Mexico, sparking heavy tactical criticism.

Carrying his explosive domestic form into the global showpiece, Mofokeng injected the immediate creativity Bafana desperately lacked.

The Vaal-born star's impact was not lost on Fredericks, who made 14 caps for Bafana.

"Even the first half today, the nerves were there, it was not the fluid Bafana we know. But as I mentioned, the presence of Relebohile Mofokeng floating around the pitch, I think that rubbed off on other players," Fredericks said while reviewing the match on SuperSportTV.

"It's easy to say that now, but I think the most important thing that happened for Bafana was the introduction of Mofokeng, which changed the shape in midfield; there were now two pivots and a number 10, which we had suggested and assumed would happen at the beginning," said the former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder.

"I think the change of that formation in midfield allowed us to play on the front foot; there was an outlet. That confidence and free movement just added that."

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It is now a must-win final Group A clash against South Korea on Thursday, 25 June. Broos faces a major headache as goal-hero Mokoena is ruled out through suspension after picking up a second booking. Themba Zwane too, will not be available for selection.

Sitting fourth on one point, only a maximum haul against the Asians will guarantee Bafana a knockout spot.