Elias Mokwana completes Kaizer Chiefs move after two seasons abroad

Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana has joined Kaizer Chiefs, describing the move as a childhood dream fulfilled after stints with Espérance de Tunis and Al Hazem.

Kaizer Chiefs have signed South African international Elias Mokwana, a move the 27-year-old winger has described as fulfilling a lifelong dream. He joins as a free agent after two seasons abroad, returning to bolster the Amakhosi attack under coach Fernando Da Cruz.

Mokwana spent the 2024/25 season with Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis, winning a domestic League and Cup double and scoring three goals in 25 appearances. He also lifted the Tunisian Super Cup that year, scoring in the final. The following campaign was spent on loan at Saudi Pro League side Al Hazem, where he made 24 league appearances.

His journey back to South African football is a homecoming. Mokwana is from KwaMhlanga in Mpumalanga and was a Chiefs supporter growing up. He expressed excitement and emotion about finally joining the club he followed as a boy, calling his mother first to share the news. The player is eager to make an immediate impact and understands the responsibility that comes with representing a club of such stature.

Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz has been seeking a player who can unlock defences, score goals, and create chances. Mokwana’s arrival during the FIFA calendar break provides a fresh option, especially as the club currently has no senior players away on international duty. This gives him a quiet period to settle in and integrate with the squad.

Mokwana brings international experience, having earned 11 caps for Bafana Bafana since his debut in March 2024. He was part of the squad at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, making two appearances, and has also played in the CAF Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup with Espérance. Before his move abroad, he made 65 appearances for Sekhukhune United over two seasons.

The winger was expected to join Chiefs earlier in his career but faced obstacles at the time. His path has now led him to Naturena, where he aims to contribute to trophy success. His first opportunity to feature could come in the upcoming Carling Knockout quarter-final.

First reported at Johannesburg Sunday World