Elias Mokwana joins Kaizer Chiefs after childhood dream finally comes true

Elias Mokwana says completing his move to Kaizer Chiefs fulfils a childhood ambition after admitting the transfer was originally expected to happen before his switch to Tunisia.

The 27-year-old winger has joined Amakhosi after first attracting the club’s interest during his time at Sekhukhune United. A move to Naturena had appeared likely at that stage of his career, but he instead signed for Esperance Sportive de Tunis and moved to North Africa.

Mokwana eventually returned to South Africa, where he was finally able to complete his long-awaited move to Chiefs.

The former Bafana Bafana international said his relationship with the Soweto giants began when he was growing up as a supporter of the club.

“I grew up supporting Amakhosi. I first heard that they were interested in me when I was at Sekhukhune. Instead of going to Esperance, I was supposed to come here, but unfortunately some obstacles prevented it from happening at the time,” Mokwana said.

While the initial opportunity fell through, Mokwana said he was delighted when Chiefs revived their interest and confirmed that they wanted to sign him.

He immediately shared the news with his family, calling the moment deeply emotional.

“I was sitting with my sisters, and the first thing I did was phone my mother to share the good news with her. I can’t explain the feeling exactly. I’m excited. It’s a very nice feeling,” he said.

Mokwana has also welcomed the environment at Naturena and said he is eager to make a contribution after arriving at a club he has supported since childhood.

The move brings more than the personal satisfaction of representing Chiefs. Mokwana is also aware of the demands that come with playing for a club whose supporters expect strong performances and success in competitions.

“For me, it is a dream come true. I have always wanted to prove myself in this team and to play a part in bringing some trophies to the club,” he added.

His next challenge is to establish himself in a Kaizer Chiefs side aiming to develop greater consistency and compete for silverware.

After seeing the move delayed earlier in his career, Mokwana now has the chance to turn a long-held ambition into a successful period with the club he grew up supporting.