The Bucs academy product reveals how PSL chairman Iron Duke thwarted his prospective move to Europe at the height of his career.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Former Bafana Bafana player Lebogang Mokoena has told the truth about how Orlando Pirates denied him the opportunity to play in Europe.
In 2003, the winger joined the Buccaneers’ senior team through the club’s development structures. He stayed with the club for five seasons.
Mokoena revealed on the SoccerBeatZA podcast that Dr. Irvin Khoza prevented him from joining SL Benfica.
WHAT WAS SAID
“I believe it was 2005 when I played for Bafana Bafana in the Gold Cup. We were playing against Mexico and won 2-1, and I had a wonderful game that day and was chosen man of the match,” Mokoena told SoccerBeat Podcast.
“So, after the match, one of the agents from Portugal, Benfica, came up and said, ‘We are extremely interested in you, so what we are going to ask of you is that you stay behind after this tournament so we can do all the talks.
“He said you’re a very young player and we’d be thrilled to have you on our team.” So they informed the late Ntate Screamer Tshabalala (may his soul rest in peace) that the jersey number nine would not be returning. “He’s coming with us,” he explained.
“Then I returned to the hotel and informed my roommate, Gift Leremi, that there was an opportunity here and that if I performed well in the following game, I would be able to live my goal of migrating overseas.
“Then after some moments, Bra Screamer knocked at my door and said there was an urgent call from the chairman back in South Africa saying that I needed to fly back tomorrow to come and play the Vodacom Challenge,” recalled the quick-tempered winger.
“I was distraught; I didn’t want to go, and I cried on my trip, wondering why I was returning for a Vodacom Challenge when there was so much possibility here. But, while Pirates did not want to lose me, I also missed an opportunity. But I’ve buried it since it’s part of life.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Mokoena, who is well-known for his speed and dribbling ability, has won numerous trophies with Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Diepkloof native also helped the now-defunct Moroka Swallows secure promotion to the Premier Soccer League by winning the NFD title in the 2019/20 season.
Cheeseboy, as the player is affectionately called, also played for Ajax Cape Town and Maccabi FC during his football career.
Mokoena has yet to hang up his boots, despite not playing professional football since leaving Swallows in 2022.
Pirates, who advanced to the MTN8 semi-finals by defeating SuperSport United on Saturday, will be looking to defend their crown.