Looming suspension lifted my game – Teboho Mokoena

The midfielder found the back of the net via the penalty spot in Thursday night's 1-1 FIFA World Cup draw at Atlanta Stadium, keeping Bafana's hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.

Mokoena was cautioned during the first half and will now miss the decisive clash in Monterrey due to suspension.

Speaking to SABC Sport after the match, the Sundowns talisman admitted the booking was disappointing but said it motivated him to give everything for the team while he was still on the field.

"I was relieved although I thought we could get another one. Unfortunately I won't play the next game, but I'm proud of the team for the way we played and showed up."

An emotional Mokoena, who’s tearful pictures during the national anthem trended all over the internet, joked he might have been more effective playing with a caution.  

"I think I play better with a yellow card because I'm very aggressive and I never pull out of a challenge, so when I' on a yellow card maybe I'm a little bit more cautious. Being at a World Cup is amazing and I know everyone back home in Bethlehem is cheering for me. I'm just living my dream."

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Meanwhile, another player who made his debut at the World Cup and put out a standout performance was winger Thapelo Maseko. 

He admits to feeling some nerves early on. 

"It's a special feeling, but I'm just thankful and grateful to the almighty and to the people back home. It was quite an emotional one for me, and I'm very happy with this point."

Maseko complimented the technical staff and believes Bafana Bafana have enough in the tank to get past South Korea.