Mofokeng Keeps Things Tidy As Union Sink Ce…

Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images

Relebohile Mofokeng put in a tidy display for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, who defeated Celta Vigo 2-1 to maintain their unbeaten run in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night.

The former Orlando Pirates star made his fourth appearance in the Europa League for Union, who thrashed Beer Sheva 4-0 last week while the LALIGA outfit secured a 2-1 win over Scottish Champions Celtic.

The hosts got off to the perfect start when Pablo Duran embarked on a fine solo run before unleashing a lovely strike that left goalkeeper Hervé Koffi with no chance.

Read: How Mofokeng Became The ‘Ideal’ Transfer For Union SG

It took a while for the Belgian outfit to get going, but they eventually restored parity in the 35th minute as Besfort Zeneli latched onto a pass from Adem Zorgane before calmly slotting home in a one-on-one situation.

The Belgians managed to turn things around in the second half and took the lead five minutes after the interval, with Zeneli completing his brace via a powerful strike, which the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) approved.

Celta looked to get themselves back on level terms soon after the hour mark as substitute Iago Aspas did well to pick out Duran, who steered his effort inches wide of the upright from just inside the box.

Union had the chance to add a third goal after 78 minutes when Mofokeng won a penalty for his side following a VAR review after his header struck the hand of Javier Rodriguez. Zeneli stepped up looking to complete his hat-trick, but the forward sent his spot-kick against the upright.

That proved to be Mofokeng’s final big involvement in the match as he made way for Darius Olaru with four minutes left on the clock in the second half, as the South African midfielder completed 90 percent of his passes on the night.

Mofokeng and Union will now shift their focus to Sunday’s Jupiler Pro League clash against Genk.

Mofokeng’s Stats, As Per Soccerway:

Shots: 2

Accurate Passes: 26/29 (90%)

Touches: 41

Touches In Opponents Box: 3

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