The story behind Aubrey Modiba’s tricks at Bafana Bafana and playing home games in Bloem
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Playing in front of a sold-out crowd at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, Modiba was not just enjoying himself on the ball - his moves were highly influential in opening space for his teammates, who went on to win 3-1 on the day. The left-wingback says the moves he was performing against the Zim Warriors helped the team offensively.
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''Obviously because, when I do that - most players shift and I can see players who are free. I know where to find Mshishi, I know where to find Teboho, I know where to find Yaya or whoever in the team at Sundowns. It is something I enjoy doing and against Zimbambwe some players said we know you will do that. Either way I did it, it helps to see players who are free - then we can go forward,'' said Modiba.
It was a significant moment for Bafana, returning to Bloemfontein after a 14-year hiatus, with their last match in the city being during the 2010 World Cup. Modiba, recognizing the potential benefits of playing in front of such large crowds, has urged SAFA to consider hosting more Bafana matches in Mangaung.
''Not only Nigeria, I think all the games, all the games are important. All the points are the same, from Nigeria, Lesotho and Zimbabwe. So every game we need that kind of crowd, because you saw how they helped us to overcome that game and do well. We pray and hope that it can continue even in the next games,'' added Modiba.
As a member of the Bafana Bafana squad that returned home with a bronze medal from the 2023 AFCON tournament in Côte d'Ivoire earlier this year, Modiba is proud to have been part of a team that made history by reaching the AFCON semifinals for the first time in 24 years. He reflects back on his 2023/2024 season.
Despite falling short this past season from winning the CAF Champions League, as Sundowns bowed out in the semifinals, losing to Esperance, they still have an opportunity to go to the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the USA next year as African champions. Modiba says this is very much possible.