Phuti Mohafe tells Thabang Matuludi to stay grounded

The 26-year-old right back was part of the South African squad that sealed a FIFA World Cup qualification with a 3-0 win over Rwanda in Mbombela last week – a milestone that has now opened the door for him to feature on the global stage.

The coach believes balancing national recognition with consistent club performances will be key to the defender’s long-term growth.

"He is very much humble, and he is still a contracted Polokwane City player. He needs to continue giving the performances for Polokwane City that earned him a Bafana Bafana call-up in the first place.

"With the way he has been playing, he should continue to be in the Bafana Bafana set-up."

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Meanwhile, Mohafe lamented another long break after City’s Carling Knockout exit, with their next match only on 1 November against Richards Bay.

"Sometimes when you are on a winning streak, these long breaks can tamper with your momentum, but if you are in a losing streak, you can assess and rectify where the team has gone wrong.