Why Oscar Mbo is right: Teboho Mokoena is South Africa’s biggest football asset

Oscar Mbo’s verdict on Teboho Mokoena being South African football’s most marketable player is difficult to dispute.

The musician and entertainer, a passionate Kaizer Chiefs supporter, named Mokoena when asked to identify the country’s biggest football asset on the Football IQ Show podcast. His choice goes beyond personal preference. Mokoena combines commercial appeal, consistent performances and importance to both Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana.

Mokoena ticks every box

The 29-year-old has built an impressive commercial portfolio, with sponsorship and ambassadorial partnerships involving Red Bull, Hyundai and Investec.

But his value cannot be measured by endorsements alone. Mokoena has developed into one of South Africa’s most complete midfielders, capable of influencing matches at both ends of the pitch.

That was evident again on Wednesday night when Sundowns defeated Siwelele 3-0 at Loftus Versfeld to extend their lead at the top of the Betway Premiership to six points over Orlando Pirates, who have two games in hand.

Mokoena was at the centre of Sundowns’ control, dictating the rhythm and helping the Pretoria giants maintain their dominance.

His long-range effort rattled the crossbar and created the opening for Kutlwano Letlhaku to tap in, but his overall contribution went well beyond that moment.

He repeatedly pushed into the final third, helped break up Siwelele attacks and provided the balance that allowed Sundowns to control possession.

More than goals and assists

Mokoena was not directly involved in the second goal, scored by Siyanda Ndlovu after he won possession, or the third, finished by Tashreeq Matthews.

Yet his influence remained clear throughout the contest.

That is what makes Mokoena such a valuable player. His contribution is not dependent on scoring or assisting. He can control the tempo, protect the defence, drive the team forward and create opportunities from distance.

His current form is also not simply the product of returning from injury. He has scored three goals in six matches across all competitions this season, continuing a level of performance that has seen him repeatedly nominated for the PSL Footballer of the Season award, including last season.

Bafana’s midfield cornerstone

Mokoena’s importance extends beyond Sundowns.

He recently represented South Africa at the World Cup, helping Bafana Bafana reach the Round of 32, and remains an important part of the national team’s plans.

New head coach Pitso Mosimane is expected to lean heavily on the midfielder for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea this month, followed by an international friendly against Egypt next month.

His ability to operate under pressure and influence games makes him one of the safest selections for the national team.

Mokoena was strongly linked with a move away from Sundowns during the transfer window, but that switch now appears unlikely to happen.

Culled from IOL.