Mamelodi Sundowns claimed the title of the first-ever African Football League champions, with coach Rulani Mokwena and captain Themba Zwane singing the praises of the hero of the hour, Aubrey Modiba.
The decisive moment unfolded at Loftus Versfeld Stadium as Sundowns secured a 2-0 victory over Wydad Casablanca, sealing a 3-2 aggregate triumph across two legs and pocketing an impressive R74 million winners’ purse.
Reflecting on the performance, captain Zwane couldn’t contain his admiration for Modiba’s game-changing goal. “Top goal from Aubrey. I don’t know if I should use this word. He has got balls,” Zwane exclaimed in the post-match analysis.
'He's got balls,' - Themba Zwane on Aubrey Modiba's goal against Wydad Casablanca. pic.twitter.com/AQn7ZYydFJ
— Mahlatse Mphahlele (@BraMahlatse) November 13, 2023
“On a serious note, it’s a final, and you score a goal like this. A top goal from Aubrey, and much respect.”
Coach Mokwena echoed the sentiment, attributing Modiba’s heroics to meticulous training preparations. “It’s satisfying to score a goal from something we practice,” Mokwena explained. “That Aubrey Modiba goal meant so much because we worked on it from that situation. Big compliment, that finish, I can’t teach that.
“I mean I would use another word. To do that, it takes a lot. I would respect the ladies that are here but unbelievable how has Modiba been good to us.”
GOAL FOR SUNDOWNS! Modiba makes it 2-0 today and 3-2 to his team on aggregate
— African Football League (@afl_africa) November 12, 2023
Watch live and replay on https://t.co/DIk5JeITof 🔥 (except Tanzania) pic.twitter.com/nRTXh5Rqi2
Mokwena’s acknowledgment of the goal’s significance highlighted the strategic approach taken by Sundowns in their pursuit of victory. The emphasis on training ground precision and the execution of well-practised moves showcased the team’s dedication to excellence.
Modiba’s goal, a testament to the team’s hard work and commitment, not only secured the championship but also left an indelible mark on the history of the African Football League.
