Mokoena joins Bafana Bafana’s elite club

Midfield maestro Teboho Mokoena has etched his name into Bafana Bafana history, reaching the coveted milestone of 50 international caps during South Africa’s 3-1 victory over Zambia in Gqeberha on Saturday afternoon.

It’s been an incredible journey for the Free State-born star, who made his senior national team debut eight years ago. Few noticed when a 20-year-old Mokoena stepped onto the pitch at Francistown Stadium on 15 July 2017, helping South Africa to a 2-0 win over Botswana in a CHAN qualifier under then-coach Stuart Baxter. At the time, he was a promising talent at SuperSport United, having graduated from Matsatsantsa’s youth academy.

Since then, “Mrembula” has grown into one of Bafana’s most influential figures. Now at Mamelodi Sundowns, the 28-year-old has become a mainstay in Hugo Broos’ midfield, combining tireless work rate with technical brilliance. His latest appearance against Zambia sees him join an elite group of players, including Ronwen Williams, Themba Zwane, and Percy Tau, who have all surpassed the 50-cap mark in recent years.

Career Highlights

Mokoena has scored nine international goals, the first coming in the 6-0 demolition of Seychelles at FNB Stadium in October 2018 during AFCON qualifiers. Among his proudest achievements is playing a pivotal role in Bafana’s qualification for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, as well as helping the team secure a memorable third-place finish at AFCON 2023.

With age still on his side, Mokoena’s story is far from over. His consistency and leadership suggest there are many more chapters to be written in his international career.

Teboho Mokoena Fact File

• Born: 24 January 1997
• Place of Birth: Bohlokong, Bethlehem, Free State
• Club: Mamelodi Sundowns
• Position: Central Midfielder
• Caps: 50
• Goals: 9
• National Team Debut: vs Botswana, CHAN Qualifier, 15 July 2017
• Last Game Played: vs Rwanda, FIFA World Cup Qualifier, 14 October 2025