Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena says Tebogo Mokoena’s incredible performances in the African Cup of Nations have settled the debate around his PSL Footballer of the Season award last season.
Mokoena’s showing also earned him a place in the team of the tournament, alongside teammate Ronwen Williams.
Bafana Bafana eventually won the bronze medal in the showpiece after beating DR Congo in the third-place playoff.
Tebza, as he is affectionately known, was widely criticised by fans and pundits alike after being named as the PSL’s overall best player. Orlando Pirates’ Monnapule Saleng was tipped for the award, having impressed with 11 goals and 8 assists in all competitions.
“I think now we can close the debate on why Tebza was player of the season. After his performances at AFCON, that debate can now be closed,” said Rulani during an interview on Radio 2000.
“I mean consistently, he (Mokoena) was probably our best performer at every single match. Mshishi (Themba Zwane) showed why he earned himself a place in the national team. He deserved it because he’s probably one of our best players and that’s why he’s captain at Sundowns. He showed through his contribution in our attack. His two goals shows that he still has something to offer,” said Mokwena.
Rulani also reserved special praise for Sundowns players who represented Bafana in the tournament held in Cote d’Ivoire.
“Williams was also exceptional, five clean sheets and three goals conceded against some very good teams that had some very good strikers. He was exceptional. Aubrey Modiba was interesting, he played the old role we know him at even though we play him in a different role this season but it was interesting to see how he did against some very good wingers.
“Sailor (Khuliso Mudau) was exceptional, the game against Nigeria was his best game. (Terence) Mashego and (Thapelo) Maseko made some very important appearances. Then you had Grant (Kekana) and (Mothobi) Mvala who were exceptional. Thapelo Morena answered the question of someone asking me if I see Thapelo as a right back and I said no. When I close my eyes and imagine my team, he’s in a more advanced position,” Mokwena noted.
