Compiled by Dylan Bettencourt
- Midfielder Teboho Mokoena cried tears of joy during the national anthem before South Africa played Czechia at the Atlanta Stadium.
- Teboho Mokoena cried tears of joy because the midfielder thought about his late grandfather who believed in the Bethlehem kid.
South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena cried tears of joy on Thursday. The star became emotional during the national anthem at the Atlanta Stadium.
The moment happened just before South Africa played against Czechia.
Mokoena said the intense emotions came because the midfielder was thinking about his late grandfather. He felt the presence of his grandfather at that exact moment. Mokoena knew his grandfather would be proud of his achievements.
His mother, Manthati Mokoena, raised him as a single parent with the help of his grandparents. This happened after his father, professional footballer Alexis Motaung, died when Mokoena was 13 years old. The family was mourning in 2010 while South Africa hosted the World Cup.
Mokoena said his grandfather believed in his football talents when nobody else did. The death of his father motivated Mokoena to work hard and support his family. Mokoena wanted his mother to live a good life, News24 reported.
During the anthem, Mokoena also thought about his mother and his son. The star never dreamed as a child growing up in Bethlehem that a World Cup appearance in front of a sold-out crowd would happen. Mokoena said he is living his childhood dream.
The emotional start set the tone. Mokoena scored a late penalty against Czechia goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek to secure a draw after both sides scored one goal. The goal kept the tournament alive for South Africa.
But Mokoena also picked up a second yellow card during the match. This means the midfielder will miss the next group match against South Korea.
Pictured above: Teboho Mokoena celebrating his goal against Czechia.
Image source: @BafanaBafana
