Mokoena Says “I’m Not Okay Inside” After Scoring in Sundowns’ MTN8 Win

Teboho Mokoena helped Mamelodi Sundowns beat Orlando Pirates 2-0 in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday, but the midfielder later revealed he is still hurting from family tragedies.

Mokoena scored the opening goal in the 11th minute after Thabang Matuludi’s clever back-heel. Substitute Iqraam Rayners then converted a late penalty to seal the result. The win gave Sundowns their fifth MTN8 title and their first since 2021. It also ended Pirates’ run of four consecutive titles in the competition. Ronwen Williams made important saves, including a penalty stop, as Masandawana held on.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match, Mokoena said the past two weeks have been very difficult. “It’s been tough two weeks for me, I lost my grandfather two weeks ago,” he explained. He also spoke about his brother, who was stabbed multiple times the day before Bafana Bafana played Guinea. “I almost lost my brother who got stabbed the day before we played Guinea. They stabbed him multiple times, it’s been tough, but I’d like to dedicate this game to him, he is in the hospital bed. I hope justice will be served.”

Mokoena said he is happy Sundowns won the trophy, but he is not okay inside. “I’m happy that we won but inside I’m not really okay because it’s sad what happened to my family and you always have to show up doesn’t matter how you’re feeling,” he said. “I dedicate this game to him, my brother and I hope he recovers.”

Despite the personal challenges, Mokoena played and scored when his team needed him. He had returned from international duty and was not fully fit, yet he still contributed to the victory that ended Pirates’ dominance in the MTN8.

Looking ahead, Mokoena said Sundowns have set a high target for the rest of the season. “As a team this season our target is plus five trophies, or else it’s going to be a failure,” he added. The Brazilians have already won two competitions this season after also lifting the FIFA Africa-Asian Cup earlier.

Mokoena’s words showed the pressure professional players face. Even after scoring in a big final and celebrating with teammates, he is carrying pain from losing his grandfather and worrying about his brother in hospital. Fans have sent messages of support, hoping his brother recovers soon and that the family finds peace. For now, Mokoena continues to show up for his club while dealing with events off the pitch.

Source: https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2108995464951734647

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