Teboho Mokoena of South Africa celebrates his goal during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations match between Morocco and South Africa at Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro, Cote dIvoire on 30 January 2024 ©Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Which EPL star does Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena resemble?
Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena has stylistic similarities to a top class Premier League midfielder. Any idea who?
Teboho Mokoena of South Africa celebrates his goal during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations match between Morocco and South Africa at Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro, Cote dIvoire on 30 January 2024 ©Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Bafana Bafana star Teboho Mokoena’s passing style bears a striking resemblance to that of an Arsenal player.
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MOKOENA THE MAESTRO FOR BAFANA BAFANA
Tebza was superb at the base of midfield for South Africa in the tournament, dovetailing perfectly with Sphephelo Sithole to help the side control games in the centre of the park. We all know about his composure, silky first touch and reading of the game in a Sundowns jersey, but it’s great to see him flourishing for the national side. That sumptuous direct free-kick against Morocco’s Atlas Lions was a highlight of the tournament. At 27, the maestro is entering his peak. What an elegant player this guy is with his wide range of passing and in-game intelligence. Rumours of interest from the English Premier League and France’s Ligue 1 aren’t going away.
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SIMILAR TO ARSENAL AND EPL STAR THOMAS PARTEY?
Mokoena’s line-breaking passing ability and tendency to hit long diagonals make his playing style similar to that of Arsenal and Ghana midfield maestro Thomas Partey. At the base of midfield, both Partey and Mokoena dictate the tempo of matches, slowing them down and then speeding things up when necessary with elegance and efficiency.
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Which global midfielders do you think Mokoena’s playing style is most similar to? Let us know in the comments.
Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game.
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