Bafana star Mokoena reveals World Cup exit heartbreak

The 29-year-old was a key figure for Bafana during their World Cup campaign, putting in a man of the match performance in the crucial 1-1 draw against Czechia before being suspended for the win against South Korea for accumulating two yellow cards.

However, the midfielder was unable to help his nation progress to the Round of 16 as they fell short to co-hosts Canada in the final moment of their knockout clash.

‘Mrebula’, as he is affectionately known by supporters, revealed what the players went through after the disappointment of being eliminated from the global showpiece.

"It was so quiet in the locker room," said Mokoena.

"Everybody is sad, that is how we are feeling right now. We felt we could have done much better, especially after how we lost the game. I know we can be proud of ourselves by creating history, but the way we lost is still bittersweet, you know.

"At the highest level, the margins are very small. When you get your chances, you must convert, you know. They didn't get many chances; they got one, and they scored. So that's the lesson we take going forward."

Mokoena has been linked with a big money move to Qatari side Al Wakrah ahead of the new season, but it is unclear if the player will leave Mamelodi Sundowns this transfer window.