South African football great Aaron “Mbazo” Mokoena has earned international recognition after being listed by FIFA among the world’s top players with over 100 international appearances. The former Bafana Bafana captain stands proudly alongside global icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the prestigious FIFA Century Club.
What Happened?
On 29 October 2025, FIFA’s Century Club celebrates male footballers who have achieved 100 or more official international caps. Mokoena, now retired, remains the only South African to have reached this remarkable milestone, closing his national career with 107 caps.
He made his debut in February 1999 at just 18 years old, playing against Botswana in a COSAFA Castle Cup match in Gaborone. He started again against Gabon in an AFCON qualifier — marking the start of a career that spanned more than a decade.
Mokoena represented South Africa at two FIFA World Cups and served as team captain, earning respect for his leadership and resilience on the field. His final appearance came in October 2010 against Sierra Leone, closing a chapter that inspired many young South Africans.
Official Response
South African football fans and officials have hailed the recognition as a proud moment for the nation. The South African Football Association (SAFA) congratulated Mokoena for his global acknowledgment.
“Aaron Mokoena’s name will forever be written in South African football history,” SAFA said in a statement. “His dedication, discipline, and leadership defined a generation of Bafana Bafana players.”
Community Impact
Mokoena’s achievement continues to inspire South African youth pursuing professional football. His journey — from a teenage debutant to a world-recognized athlete — highlights the potential of South African talent on the international stage.
Fans have taken to social media to celebrate the milestone, describing him as a symbol of perseverance and a true ambassador of Bafana Bafana.
