Defender Mothobi Mvala on the Festive Season and Looking Ahead to 2025

images © Backpage Pix

Author: Erica Mathye

As the joyous festive season unfolds, the Mamelodi Sundowns Digital Magazine caught up with defender Mothobi Mvala to celebrate the spirit of the season and reflect on what has been an extraordinary year for him in both domestic and international football. With his staunch dedication and standout performances, Mvala shares insights into his journey, his highlights of the year and how he plans to make this festive season a meaningful one.

Q: How has your journey with Mamelodi Sundowns been so far, and what have you learned as part of such a competitive squad?

A: This journey has taught me patience, as not everyone gets the chance to play. I have learned to make the most of every opportunity and to help the team keep a clean sheet, which is crucial. The friendships we have built as teammates are the best part of my time at the Club, teaching us to support each other on and off the pitch. Ultimately, I have learned to be patient and to stay driven to play in every game.

Q: How does your hometown in Free State compare to Pretoria in terms of culture and lifestyle?

A: In 2012, I was scouted while playing in the Kay Motsepe Competition and fully joined a team toward the end of that year after completing my exams. I have been living in Gauteng since 2013. Theunissen is a small town with no big stores or malls compared to Gauteng. Life in Gauteng is fast-paced and requires one to adapt quickly to avoid being overwhelmed. There is a significant distinction between the two provinces.

Q: What role does your family play in keeping you grounded in your footballing career?

A: They play a very crucial role in my life. I know that if I do things that do not align with the lessons that my grandfather and the rest of my family taught me, I will be disappointing them. There are people in the township who look up to me, which means I would be disappointing them too. Everyones’ support keeps me grounded.

Q: What are your plans for the festive season this year? Any special traditions?

A: To be honest, I hadn’t made any plans for this year’s festive season because I did not anticipate an injury. A few days ago, I made last minute plans, I will be spending the festive season with my family. They will be coming to Gauteng so we can spend time together, which I am really happy about. We can not do physical activities because of the injury, we will take it easy and have lunch and exchange gifts. This will be my first Christmas in years spent with family.

Q: Do you enjoy cooking or helping with festive meals, or do you leave it to family?

A: I will be there helping because it is something I enjoy doing whenever I get a chance during the holidays. My mom is the best in the kitchen, she will be cooking for us. I know her specialty is African cousine, so I know we will be eating lots of that. During the Christmas season, we want food that we grew up eating so I’m excited for that.

Q: If you could pick one highlight from the year to celebrate this festive season, what would it be?

A: My biggest highlight has to be representing Bafana Bafana at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and bagging the bronze medal. It was my first AFCON a we did very well as a team.

🎄 Quickfire Quiz – Festive Edition! 🎄

Q: Favorite holiday food?

A: Pap and Mogodu – nothing beats this hearty, traditional favorite!

Q: Dream festive destination?

A: Locally, I would love to escape to the serene beauty of Hartbeespoort – it’s the perfect holiday vibe!

Q: Toughest striker you have defended against this year?

A: Without a doubt, Victor Osimhen during AFCON. That man is a force to reckon with!

Q: One big goal for 2025?

A: To stay injury-free, play as many games as possible, and help the team achieve greatness! Winning the CAF Champions League and winning the Championship with Mamelodi Sundowns and representing Bafana Bafana in the AFCON squad are at the top of my list.

Q: Favorite festive song?

A: I love deep house, that is what I jam to most of the time. Let me ask Thembinkosi Lorch assist in that category.
He believes that Biri Marung by Mr. Pilato, Tebogo G Mashego, Ego Slimflow featuring Focalistic, Scotts Maphuma, DJ Maphorisa, Sje Konka, and CowBoii – will welcome the new year!

Q: Festive season message to the yellow Nation and public

A: Travel safely and enjoy yourselves with your families. See you in the coming year.

As Mothobi Mvala looks ahead to 2025, his dedication to both his career and family remainstrong and is rearing to go.

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