Grant Kekana hails Teboho Mokoena as Mamelodi Sundowns’ big-game specialist

Grant Kekana says Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana team-mate Teboho Mokoena is “the guy for the big occasions” after almost eight years of sharing dressing rooms with the midfielder.

The pair first developed their understanding at SuperSport United before taking that partnership to Sundowns at Chloorkop and the South African national team.

Kekana and Mokoena have since become key figures for both club and country. They have formed the central spine of a dominant Sundowns side for much of the past five years, while also helping Bafana Bafana establish themselves as a strong force in African football.

Their international achievements include a bronze-medal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with KickOff, defender Kekana praised Mokoena’s consistency and his ability to perform when the pressure is highest.

“Tebza? Of course Teboho is just the guy for the big occasions; just give him a full-capacity stadium, and you will see the real Mbrembula! (laughs).

“But yeah, no, every day he trains the same; he plays the same. It’s what we are used to: the standard is very, very high.

“I’m just honoured to be among this great group of players.”

Mokoena’s performances have also been recognised individually. He won the 2022/23 PSL Footballer of the Season award and was selected in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Team of the Tournament.

Kekana has collected a major honour of his own, being named PSL Defender of the Season for the 2023/24 campaign.

The two players’ club and international success, combined with their individual awards, has placed them among the leading figures in modern South African football.