Bafana Bafana's Veli Mothwa: A Goalkeeper In Need Of More Game Time

Holifil

01 Apr, 2025

Grant Johnson, Bafana Bafana goalkeeper coach, believes Veli Mothwa will improve with consistent game time.
Despite making costly errors for both AmaZulu FC and the national team, Mothwa continues to receive both criticism and support from fans.
Social media has been a mix of backing and criticism for the 33-year-old goalkeeper as he navigates a tough period in his career.

Bafana Bafana goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson has expressed his belief that Veli Mothwa will see significant improvement with more consistent playing time this season. Johnson acknowledges that Mothwa, who has recently found himself at the center of controversy due to some costly mistakes, needs opportunities to showcase his skills and regain his form.

Mothwa, a key figure in both Bafana Bafana and AmaZulu FC, has faced harsh criticism for his performance. However, Johnson is confident that with more matches under his belt, Mothwa will bounce back stronger. It’s not just about talent; it’s about having the right environment to thrive.

Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Veli Mothwa has the full support of his coach, Grant Johnson. Image: Sia Kambou/AFP.Source: Getty Images

As the Usuthu captain, Mothwa is going through a challenging phase, but there’s an opportunity for him to prove himself once again. He could get another shot to shine when AmaZulu FC takes on Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday, 25 September 2024. This game could be a pivotal moment for him to silence his critics.

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Grant Johnson: Giving Veli Mothwa Time to Shine

In a recent tweet, Johnson addressed the situation surrounding Mothwa, emphasizing the importance of game time for goalkeepers. Here's what Johnson had to say:

According to FARPost, Johnson attributes Mothwa’s recent slip-ups to the lack of consistent playing time. With the addition of Richard Ofori to AmaZulu FC, competition is heating up, but Johnson remains optimistic. He explained:

"The problem was that he hadn't had game time leading up to that game, which is a problem. Had the PSL started, he would have had a few games under his belt, and we would have seen a different result."

Fans Weigh In: Support and Criticism for Veli Mothwa

The South African football community is divided on Mothwa's performance. While some fans have taken to social media to criticize him, others have shown unwavering support. This mix of opinions reflects the polarizing nature of Mothwa’s recent performances.

Zamo Yengwa, one of Mothwa’s supporters, chimed in with encouragement:

"He will turn the corner!! Stay strong."

Elethu Sifolo, another supporter, added:

"But Veli, he is a good keeper."

However, not everyone shares this sentiment. Patraw Mabasa voiced his disapproval:

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"For him to be in the national team is a big mistake."

Maseko Mzwakhe was equally critical:

"Veli Mothwa is costing Amazulu. He makes silly mistakes."

Fabian Ezra summed up his stance with a straightforward opinion:

"Naw, he's not a good keeper. End of story."

AmaZulu FC Faces a Crucial Decision

As reported by Briefly News, AmaZulu FC coach Pablo Franco Martin has a tough choice to make. The Spanish coach must decide who will be his number one goalkeeper moving forward. With the addition of experienced Ghanaian shot-stopper Richard Ofori, the competition for the starting position is fiercer than ever.

Martin could opt for the seasoned Ofori, whose experience might bring stability to the team, or he could stick with Mothwa, giving the Bafana Bafana star a chance to redeem himself. The decision could shape not only the future of AmaZulu FC but also Mothwa’s career trajectory. The pressure is on, and the choice will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.