Mamelodi Sundowns star Teboho Mokoena faces World Cup test after demanding campaign

Mokoena heads to North America as one of Bafana Bafana's most important players after another demanding season for both club and country.

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder played a key role in the Brazilians' CAF Champions League triumph and remains a central figure in Hugo Broos' national team setup.

While Mayambela admitted he has some concerns about the midfielder's workload, he believes the level at which Mokoena has been competing could ultimately benefit South Africa at the World Cup.

"The level of competition is very important, where the players play because the likes of Tebza (Mokoena) are used to that level," Mayambela said on Izinja ZeGame with Josta Dladla.

The former Pirates winger highlighted the intensity of modern football, particularly in continental competitions, where players are subjected to far greater physical demands than they encounter in domestic leagues.

"I was looking at statistics when Sundowns played the final against Pyramids FC. They encountered 266 pressing moments," he said.

"When Sundowns play in the PSL, they encounter half of that or even less of that. You see, the level they play in the Champions League is not the same level they play here at home."

Mayambela believes those experiences could prove invaluable when Bafana face some of the world's best teams at the global showpiece.

However, he also acknowledged that Mokoena's heavy schedule remains a concern.

"I'm a bit worried about Tebza, of course, with the amount of games he has played," he said.

The 29-year-old featured in 41 matches for Sundowns during the 2025/26 campaign and also represented South Africa at AFCON, World Cup qualifiers and international friendlies.

With Bafana preparing for their first World Cup appearance since 2010, Broos will be hoping Mokoena's experience and resilience can outweigh the demands of a gruelling season.