Teboho Mokoena

Teboho Mokoena is one of South Africa's leading midfielders, known for his powerful long-range shooting, passing range, work rate and ability to control the middle of the pitch.

Born on 24 January 1997 in Bethlehem, Free State, Mokoena grew up in a football-loving family. His father, Alexis Motaung, was a professional footballer who played for clubs including Hellenic and Free State Stars. However, Mokoena has often credited his mother, who raised him as a single parent, as his biggest influence.

From Bethlehem to professional football

Mokoena joined the SuperSport United academy during the 2014/15 season and was promoted to the senior team during that same season.

He quickly established himself as one of the country's most promising young midfielders. During his time with SuperSport United, he helped the club win the Nedbank Cup in 2017 and the MTN8 in 2019.

His performances also earned him opportunities at international youth level. He represented South Africa at U17, U20 and U23 level, including at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Bafana Bafana breakthrough

Mokoena made his senior Bafana Bafana debut in 2018.

Over time, he developed into an important part of the national team's midfield, particularly under coach Hugo Broos. His ability to win possession, move the ball forward and strike from distance made him one of Bafana's most influential players.

His reputation grew significantly during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where South Africa finished third. Mokoena was selected in the tournament's Team of the Tournament.

Joining Mamelodi Sundowns

In January 2022, Mokoena made a major career move when he joined Mamelodi Sundowns from SuperSport United.

Sundowns described him as one of the outstanding players in the domestic league, and Mokoena said joining the club had been a major ambition of his.

The move proved hugely successful.

At Sundowns, he became a key component of a team that has dominated South African football. He has won multiple DStv/Betway Premiership titles and helped the club win the 2023 Africa Football League.

The long-range specialist

One of Mokoena's trademarks is his ability to score spectacular goals from distance.

His powerful right foot has produced several memorable strikes for both Sundowns and Bafana Bafana. He is also a dangerous set-piece taker and is regularly trusted with free kicks and corners.

Beyond his shooting, his passing ability and defensive positioning have made him an increasingly complete central midfielder.

A key figure for Bafana

Mokoena has become one of the players South African supporters increasingly associate with the modern Bafana Bafana midfield.

His performances during World Cup qualifying and the Africa Cup of Nations have strengthened his reputation, while his experience at Sundowns has given him exposure to high-level domestic and continental football.

By 2026, he had established himself as one of the most experienced members of South Africa's midfield group.

Teboho Mokoena — quick facts

• Full name: Teboho Mokoena
• Born: 24 January 1997
• Birthplace: Bethlehem, Free State
• Nationality: South African
• Position: Central/defensive midfielder
• Preferred foot: Right
• Current club: Mamelodi Sundowns
• Previous club: SuperSport United
• Bafana Bafana debut: 2018
• Youth international: U17, U20 and U23
• Olympics: Tokyo 2020
• Major honours: Multiple PSL titles, Nedbank Cup, MTN8, Africa Football League
• Individual recognition: AFCON 2023 Team of the Tournament; 2023/24 PSL Player of the Season

From Bethlehem to becoming one of Bafana Bafana's midfield leaders, Teboho Mokoena's rise has been built on hard work, family sacrifice and a remarkable ability to dictate games from midfield.