Mamelodi Sundowns star Teboho Mokoena has revealed he played through devastating family tragedy in the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates, dedicating his match-winning performance to his hospitalised brother.
Masandawana were crowned the 2026 ‘Wafa Wafa’ champions after a 2-0 victory at a packed Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night, dethroning the Sea Robbers who had held on to the trophy for four successive editions.
Mokoena set the tone early in the showpiece, breaking the deadlock in the 12th minute before Iqraam Rayners sealed the result from the penalty spot deep in stoppage time of the game.
As a result, Masandawana won the 2026 MTN8 final, claiming the trophy for the first time since 2021.
However, behind the glory and the celebrations lay a heavy personal burden. Mokoena had to pass a late fitness test for the final after picking up a knock on Bafana Bafana duty during the recent FIFA international break.
Mokoena sustained his injury setback during South Africa’s 2027 AFCON qualifier against Guinea, which saw him miss matches against Eritrea and Egypt.
‘I LOST MY GRANDFATHER, AND MY BROTHER WAS STABBED’: TEBOHO MOKOENA
Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match, an emotional Mokoena opened up about the devastating trials his family has faced.
“You know, it’s been a tough two weeks for me. I lost my grandfather two weeks ago. I almost lost my brother, who got stabbed the day before we played Guinea. They stabbed him multiple times; it’s been tough, but I would like to dedicate this game to him. He is currently in a hospital bed. I hope justice will be served,” said Mokoena.
Despite the overwhelming distress, the 29-year-old emphasised the professional obligation to soldier on, channelling his pain into a stellar performance on the pitch.
“I’m happy that we won, but inside I’m not really okay. It’s sad what happened to my family, you know. But you always have to show up, and it doesn’t matter how you are feeling. I dedicate this game to him, my brother. I hope he recovers,” Mokoena added.
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