Teboho Mokoena showcased deep emotion during Bafana Bafana’s match against Czechia, particularly as the national anthem played before kickoff. The midfielder was visibly moved, shedding tears as he stood in solidarity with his teammates.
Mokoena’s emotional journey continued as he scored a penalty to level the match in the second half after Czechia had taken the lead. His reaction reflected the significance of the moment, as he expressed his thoughts about his late grandfather and the pride he felt in that instant.
“When I was overwhelmed, I was thinking of my late grandfather, I know wherever he is, he’ll be proud of me,” Mokoena shared, according to FIFA.com. He elaborated, “I just felt his presence at that moment, I knew if he was here, he would be proud of me cause I know he believed in me when nobody believed in me.”
Reflecting on the support from his family, Mokoena added, “I thought of my mom, my son – like the people who believe in me, I was so emotional, thinking that we’re playing in the World Cup, sold out South Africa against Czech. As a kid, I never thought I would be here, scoring that goal was a cherry on top. I was emotional it’s a dream come true. I’m living my dream as a kid from Bethlehem, I know everyone back home is happy.”