Saudi Giants Al Ettifaq Target Sundowns Star
Mamelodi Sundowns star midfielder Teboho Mokoena has attracted strong interest from Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq, according to reports in the Middle East.
Mokoena’s stock has soared following a stunning display in Bafana Bafana’s 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in the 2026 FIFA World Cup last Thursday.
The Sundowns midfield dynamo showed nerves of steel to convert a crucial, high-pressure penalty, securing South Africa’s historic first-ever point in the tournament.
Hugo Broos’s men had initially started their World Cup campaign on the back foot after suffering a 2-0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico on 11 June.
World Cup Heartbreak and Hopes
While Mokoena was the hero of the second-half resurgence against Czechia, his joy was short-lived. The 29-year-old received a second successive tournament yellow card during the match, ruling him out of Thursday morning’s vital final group clash against South Korea.
Bafana Bafana face a must-win scenario against the Asian giants. A victory would go a long way toward securing second place in Group A, or cementing a spot as one of the best third-placed finishers to reach the newly expanded Round of 32.
The Al Ettifaq Connection & Price Tag
Should a move materialize, Mokoena would reunite with Bafana Bafana teammate Mohau Nkota. The talented attacker left Orlando Pirates to join the Dammam-based Saudi club at the start of last season.
However, prising the maestro out of Chloorkop will not come cheap. Mokoena is contracted to Masandawana until 2029, meaning Al Ettifaq will have to break the bank for a substantial transfer fee.
The midfield general is currently enjoying the finest form of his career. Just last month, he scored a pivotal goal in the second leg as Mamelodi Sundowns clinched the CAF Champions League title in Morocco.
Mokoena’s Career in Numbers:
- Bafana Bafana: 53 caps, 10 goals
- Mamelodi Sundowns: 180 appearances, 19 goals, 14 assists
- Trophies: 4x Domestic League Titles, 1x CAF Champions League
