Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana is proving his worth in North Africa in more ways than one, with goals and assists aplenty.
Mokwana, 25, has taken the good with the bad to endear himself to the hearts of the Espérance faithful, who are now probably convinced he’s a good buy for the 33-time Tunisian league champions.
For a player who was playing for Platinum City Rovers in South Africa’s ABC Motsepe League—the third tier—just a few years ago, Mokwana’s meteoric rise is one for the books.
But for the uninitiated, the lad from KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, has had to contend with doubters and uncertainties since making a switch from Sekhukhune United on a three-year deal last year.
“Some at home think it’s a bad move, but I think it’s a great move,” Mokwana countered on joining the blood and gold club.
Back in November 2024—just three months into his contract—reports emanated in local media that Espérance was “in breach of the agreement” relating to non-payments, and Mokwana’s camp was mulling over canceling the agreement.
The matter was hastily resolved by Espérance, but a month later, world football controlling body FIFA ordered Espérance to settle their debt to Sekhukhune United, who had not received the transfer fee of $400,000 (R7.5 million plus 5% interest) within 45 days or face a transfer ban. Again, there was a resolution.
Despite the challenges, Mokwana has amassed five goals and four assists in 25 appearances for Espérance, and for his first season, he’s fared well thus far.
Recently, he helped the club win the Tunisian Super Cup, edging Stade Tunisien 2-0, with Mokwana on the scoresheet.
On Wednesday, 26 February, he provided an assist as Espérance beat Etoile du Sahel 3-0 in a top-of-the-table clash.
With his progress something to write home about, South Africa awaits his return when Espérance takes on Mamelodi Sundowns in the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League after a recent draw pitted the two sides against each other.
The home and away battle is set for early April, and if Mokwana’s current form is anything to go by, Sundowns would have to keep a very close eye on him.
