Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns defender has revealed his coping mechanisms for dealing with fierce criticism he has been facing, insisting he remains unfazed by it.
A player's performance is often only celebrated while they're in top form, fading from memory once they struggle. That’s what the Brazilians utility player Mothobi Mvala has been going through in his career.
One of the most unforgettable errors for the 30-year-old was scoring an own goal in the 2022/23 season, denying Sundowns a place in the CAF Champions League final.
He recently added another costly mistake to his record, costing Masandawana an invincible DStv Premiership season with a loss to Cape Town City in the final match.
Mvala has unfortunately committed even more errors beyond the two mentioned above.
Speaking to the media at Grant Kekana's fundraising golf charity event at Euphoria Golf Estate, he insisted that the public's criticism hasn't affected him.
Mvala credits his strong support system, including his partner and family, for helping him overcome the challenges he faces on the field.
MOTHOBI MVALA PRAISES STRONG SUPPORT BASE HE HAS
“It’s something (mistakes) that happens to everyone. Not everyone will like you and it’s the nature of our profession or any athlete in the world,” Mvala said.
“If we don’t do well or make mistakes, these things will always come up. We are just unfortunate that we do our work publicly and people are watching and they can say whatever they want. You just have to be strong as long as you have your family by your side.
“My girlfriend is always there for me, my mother and teammates so they help me to recover quickly. That’s what helps me but I don’t put it in my head and I’m not on social media. I don’t see all these things although I know there are things people are saying but I really don’t see them and I don’t care to be honest.”
Mvala believes he has improved to be a better player over the last few seasons since joining the Tshwane giants.
The defender has established himself as a key player in the heart of Masandawana defence alongside his partner in crime Grant Kekana.
“I think every season. I’m always improving and trying to do better than the previous season although there will be mistakes,” he added.
“I try to rectify the mistakes and try to be a better player. Playing at centre back is not something new to me. It’s a position that I have played before and I’m enjoying it by listening to the coach’s instructions and trying to help the team where I can.”
