‘Broke’ ex-Bafana and Sundowns defender gets a job as a mineworker.

“I cannot sit at home and do nothing. Now I am working for my children and family,” said former Mamelodi Sundowns defender.

Former Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Lovers Mohlala is now working in the mines, two decades after retiring from professional football.

At 48 years old, he was known as a hard tackler during the 90s and 2000s, having played for clubs such as Wits University, Jomo Cosmos, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Moroka Swallows. Since hanging up his boots in his mid-30s, Mohlala has faced challenges, often struggling with unemployment and a lack of income.

During his time with Sundowns, the retired defender was well-known for his lively lifestyle. However, unemployment and hardships eventually led Mohlala to take a job in the mines after receiving assistance from a friend.

“I cannot sit at home and do nothing. Now I am working for my children and family,” he told Sunday World last year.

“I am the stockpile manager and a friend of mine hooked me up with the mine boss, who is also a friend. Unfortunately, I cannot disclose the name of the mine and other details.”

Former Sundowns defender goes from farming into mining.
Mohlala made his name as a hard-tackling defender and was part of the Mamelodi Sundowns golden generation between 1998-2001.

“A man must be busy and not be idling. I am also selling livestock in Brits and meat in Brakpan. My family (wife and kids) are in the East Rand while I am mostly based in North-West province,” the former left-back added.

Mohlala was one of the best left-footed defenders in the PSL in the late 90s at Sundowns, however his career went south when he left Masandawana.

Why are local soccer players struggling after retirement?

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