After scoring South Africa’s first goal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena shared why he had tears in his eyes while singing the national anthem.
The national soccer team drew 1-1 with Czechia on 18 June 2025 at the Atlanta Stadium in the United States, with Mokoena receiving his second yellow card of the tournament.
Also see: Bafana fights back to hold Czechia level
Teboho Mokoena explains his tears
In a post-match interview, the 29-year-old told ESPN that he was overwhelmed as he thought about his late grandfather.
“I know wherever he is, he will be proud of me. I just felt his presence at that moment. I thought he was here. He would be so proud of me because I know he believed in me when no one else did. I know my mom, my son, believed in me.
“I was so emotional thinking that here we were, playing at the World Cup, sold out, South Africa. I was emotional, and it’s a dream come true. I’m living my dream as a kid from Bethlehem.”
Mokoena’s teammate, Relebohile Mofokeng, shared, “If he cried, it’s because it means a lot to him; this game means a lot to him.”
Also see: Watch: Bafana legend slams double standards against South Africa
Will Mokoena play in the next match?
Teboho restored hope in the nation when he scored the first goal for the country, but will South Africans remain faithful without him?
The Mamelodi Sundowns player will miss the match against South Korea on 25 June 2026 at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico. The match serves as a crucial game for Bafana Bafana, as it will determine whether the team proceed to the knockout stage of the international soccer tournament.
Also see: Bafana vs Mexico biggest World Cup opener since 2010
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