Hugo Broos has paid tribute to Teboho Mokoena’s character and emotion after the midfielder scored Bafana Bafana‘s equaliser against Czechia, but the head coach admitted the team now faces a significant problem after Mokoena picked up his second yellow card of the tournament, ruling him out of the crucial final Group A game against South Korea.
Mokoena, who was seen in tears during the national anthem before kick-off, went on to etch his name into South African football history with a goal on the grandest stage of all, the first goal for the nation at the global event since the 2010 edition on home soil.
However, the booking he received means Broos must now find a way to replace one of his most influential players at the worst possible time.
“It’s a pity he got two yellow cards during a tournament, that if we go through, we pay the price, and it’s among the best players in our team, it’s something we need to solve, the problem is there and we need to do it,” Broos said.
The Belgian coach was measured in his criticism of Mokoena’s yellow card, acknowledging that managing emotions at a first World Cup is easier said than done.
“I think Teboho is always a good player and remains a good player and in a game like this, it’s difficult to control your emotions. It was a stupid yellow card, but sometimes it happens, but something we need to learn at this level,” he said.
“It’s a team with not much experience only on the African continent, besides that, there’s not much, so we learn a lot in these games. That’s why it would be good if we can advance to the second round, and then these things will disappear, I’m sure.”
The 72-year-old was candid about the collective areas that need addressing as South Africa prepare for their must-not-lose clash with South Korea, from defensive concentration to disciplinary awareness.
“We will be more focused and avoid things like that throw-in, anticipate better, position better, showing emotions and getting yellow cards,” he said.
“I can’t blame anyone; it shows the mentality of Mokoena is very good and that pleased me.”
The tears before kick-off, followed by a goal that kept South Africa’s World Cup dream alive, told the story of a player who cares deeply; and a coach who recognises that quality even when it comes at a cost.
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