Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star Teboho Mokoena has become the subject of a heated debate after comments he made during a post-match interview sparked outrage among fans. The midfielder, known for his sharp performances on the field, has vowed to stop speaking to the media altogether, claiming his words were twisted and misinterpreted.
What Happened?
The controversy stems from Mokoena’s statements following Bafana Bafana’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Congo in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier last month. Mokoena, who scored two brilliant goals during the game, was asked about his passionate celebrations. His response, “I don’t play a lot of games in a full stadium, so I had to enjoy it,” quickly made headlines.
While some fans found the comment relatable, others believed it was a dig at Sundowns. The club, despite its dominance in South African football, has often been criticized for low stadium attendance compared to its rivals, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
The statement went viral on social media, dividing opinions. Sundowns supporters were especially vocal, with some accusing Mokoena of disrespecting the club.
Clarifications from Mokoena
Mokoena took to social media to address the backlash, clarifying that his comments were about Bafana Bafana’s experiences and not Sundowns. He explained that his remarks referred to the packed Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, where the Congo game took place, contrasting it with previous Bafana games played in near-empty stadiums.
“The question was: What was my feeling after scoring in a packed stadium? I answered that based on Bafana. It wasn’t club-related,” Mokoena explained in a private message shared by a Sundowns fan.
He elaborated further, pointing out that Bafana Bafana had played in almost empty venues at Orlando Stadium, Moses Mabhida, and FNB Stadium. He emphasized that the packed crowds in Gqeberha and Bloemfontein were exceptions this year.
“No More Interviews”
Frustrated by how his words were reported, Mokoena expressed his disappointment with the media. Responding to a post by a journalist who shared the story, the midfielder wrote, “Don’t lie brother. The question was: What was my feeling after scoring in a full, packed stadium? We must stop doing interviews with you guys, suka [get lost].”
He further vowed to stay away from media engagements entirely, saying, “I won’t do interviews anymore. The media is trying by all means to sabotage [me].”
Mixed Reactions
Social media reactions to the incident have been polarized. Some fans stood by Mokoena, arguing that he was merely being honest about the reality of playing in South Africa.
“Teboho Mokoena didn’t lie or disrespect anyone. He was talking about Bafana,” said one supporter on X (formerly Twitter).
Another wrote, “This fantastic football player must be protected at all costs. He was just being honest that he’s not used to playing in filled stadiums.”
However, not everyone saw it that way. Critics accused Mokoena of being insensitive, with one fan stating, “Teboho Mokoena is so disrespectful. I am done with him. This is a dig at Sundowns.”
Some Sundowns supporters admitted there was truth to Mokoena’s comments, even if they were directed at the club. “Sundowns fans have the capacity to fill stadiums, but they choose games,” a fan posted.
The Bigger Picture
This controversy raises broader questions about the challenges athletes face in managing their public image. Mokoena’s case highlights the potential for misunderstandings in the era of viral content. A seemingly innocuous comment can be taken out of context, leading to widespread backlash and even threats to a player’s career.
For Mokoena, the incident has overshadowed his exceptional contributions on the field. His two goals against Congo were crucial in securing Bafana’s spot in the 2025 AFCON. In that same game, his celebrations were a testament to his passion and determination, making it all the more unfortunate that they have become a point of contention.
Moving Forward
As the dust settles, Mokoena will likely channel his focus back to his performances for both Sundowns and Bafana Bafana. His skill and contributions remain invaluable, and he continues to be a critical player for South Africa.
The incident also serves as a reminder of the need for responsible reporting and the importance of context in media coverage. Athletes often walk a fine line in their interactions with the press, and Mokoena’s decision to withdraw from interviews is a cautionary tale for both players and journalists.
While fans remain divided, one thing is clear: Teboho Mokoena’s passion for football is undeniable. Whether he speaks to the media or not, his actions on the pitch will undoubtedly continue to make headlines, for all the right reasons.
Related article: Player Ratings Breakdown: Who Rose to the Occasion in Bafana’s 1-1 Draw Against Congo
