Mokoena admits World Cup qualification comes as a massive relief

Mokoena was at the centre of the three points controversy. Three points that were deducted by FIFA after he was fielded in the 2-0 win over Lesotho earlier this year despite having been on two yellow cards.

The sanction saw Bafana drop down to second in the group, with a similar goal difference to Benin before the last two matches. But Mokoena is happy the successful qualification has overshadowed this.

Speaking to SABC Sport in an exclusive Investec Golf Day event held at the Pretoria Country Club yesterday, Mokoena, who has been very key to Bafana Bafana’s success under coach Hugo Broos, looks back with pride having been part of Broos’ team in the past four years.

"It has been a long journey to get here. My son happened to be born on the same day Hugo Broos coached his first Bafana Bafana game, so we have shared special memories along the way, and it has been a special qualification campaign."

READ: Minister McKenzie to shower World Cup-bound Bafana Bafana with bonuses

Mokoena’s agent, Glyn Binkin, says the past few months have been challenging for his player, but says the qualification comes as a relief and feels that justice was served...

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfield kingpin is one of the few players in the current Bafana squad to have played in the U20 World Cup, Olympics, AFCON, and now going to the senior World Cup.

For him, it's a dream come true...