Orlando Pirates announce the death of promising youngster Setjhaba Mofokeng

Orlando Pirates have announced the death of promising player Setjhaba Mofokeng on Friday night.

The teenager was on loan at ABC Motsepe League side Wits FC at the time of his passing according to the Soweto giants.

"Orlando Pirates Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Setjhaba Mofokeng," a club statement read.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.

"Setjhaba, who was on loan at Wits at the time of his passing, was part of our 2023/24 DDC team.

"Rest in peace, Setjhaba."

Mofokeng had joined Pirates from North West Province-based Brits Soccer Academy as a 16-year-old in February 2022.

Nicknamed Marcelo, the left-back turned out for Pirates' under-19 in the SAB Regional League in Gauteng.

Marcelo was later included in the club's DStv Diski Challenge squad before being loaned out to Wits.

Before joining the Brits Soccer Academy in December 2019, the lefty played for an amateur club called Cornelia which is based in the Free State.

GOAL extends its deepest condolences to the Mofokeng family, his loved ones, and Orlando Pirates.

The Buccaneers will be inactive this weekend with Saturday's Carling Cup match between Magesi FC and All-Stars team taking centre stage.

Pirates will be back in action on Tuesday when they play host to Marumo Gallants in a PSL clash in Soweto.