Bafana Bafana Duo – Mokoena & Mbule make Parents proud

Manthati Mokoena and Matumane Mbule have struck up a relationship that is fuelled by a need to protect their famous sons.

The two women are mothers to Bafana Bafana midfield generals Teboho Mokoena and Sipho Mbule. The women from Bohlokong, Bethlehem, are naturally proud of their sons’ achievements, having made it out of the township’s dusty, and often tough streets, into the national team, Bafana Bafana. The two are also key members of their respective teams, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.

“As mothers, we are obviously happy to see these boys doing so well. In Teboho’s case, he has always been an obedient, hard-working child and I always supported him. I attended his games while he was still a boy playing football at school. I would shout the loudest because I was very proud of him,” said Mokoena.

She said the two players have made their township proud. “People of Bohlokong are happy for them and we appreciate their support. I have found a friend in Matumane as a mother whose son is also a professional footballer. I have always known her and her husband Bongani and it is a wonderful feeling to have our boys doing well for their teams and the national team,” said Mokoena.

Mbule shared her sentiments, saying her son, affectionally known as ‘Master Chef’ is the pride of the family.

“He has brought us so much joy and we are obviously happy for him. Bohlokong has talent and Teboho and Sipho are living proof of that,” said Mbule.

Premier of the Free State MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae said the two footballers are the pride of the province.

“They have put our province on the map. However, credit must go to their parents for instilling dedication, discipline and hard work in their sons.

This is a lesson to other parents to support their children to become the best version of themselves. On behalf of the Free State Provincial Government, we congratulate them on helping the national soccer team to quality for the World Cup,” said Premier Letsoha-Mathae.