Elias Mokwana is reportedly closing in on a move to Kaizer Chiefs after parting ways with Esperance. Can the winger rediscover the form that made him one of South Africa’s exciting attacking talents in 2024?
Kaizer Chiefs appear ready to strengthen their squad with the addition of Elias Mokwana, who is expected to undergo a medical examination before completing his move to Naturena.
The reported R11 million signing would give Amakhosi another attacking option as coach Fernando Da Cruz looks to improve the team’s performances. However, Mokwana arrives with a point to prove after a difficult spell away from South African football.
The question is whether Chiefs can help him rediscover the form that first made him stand out at Sekhukhune United.
Mokwana’s rise at Sekhukhune United
Mokwana made a strong impression during his time with Sekhukhune United, particularly in the 2023/24 campaign.
The winger registered four goals and four assists in 25 league appearances, attracting attention with his pace, attacking movement and ability to trouble defenders.
Across 65 appearances for Babina Noko, he accumulated 10 yellow cards. His disciplinary record is something his next club may want to monitor, especially if he is expected to become a regular starter.
His performances earned him a move to Tunisian giants Esperance in August 2024.
A difficult spell abroad
Mokwana’s career has taken a different direction since leaving South Africa.
He joined Saudi Pro League side Al Hazem on loan from Esperance in August 2025. During the 2025/26 league season, he reportedly made 24 appearances, scoring once and providing three assists.
Those numbers suggest he struggled to make the same attacking impact that had made him a standout performer in the PSL.
His disciplinary record also remained a talking point, with six yellow cards in those 24 league appearances.
At 27, Mokwana still has time to rebuild his career, but a return to South Africa could provide the fresh start he needs.
Can Mokwana solve a problem for Kaizer Chiefs?
For Chiefs, the potential signing represents an opportunity to add a player who already understands the demands of South African football.
Mokwana’s best performances at Sekhukhune demonstrated that he can contribute goals and assists while offering a direct attacking threat. If Da Cruz can restore his confidence and improve his consistency, the winger could become a useful addition.
However, his recent numbers suggest that Chiefs should not expect an instant transformation. Getting the best out of him will require more than simply bringing him back to the PSL.
Bafana Bafana ambitions also at stake
Mokwana’s international prospects have also taken a hit.
His last minutes for Bafana Bafana came against Egypt in December 2025. He was subsequently on the bench for South Africa’s AFCON Round of 16 defeat to Cameroon in January 2026, but has not featured for the national team since, according to the original report.
A successful return to the PSL could give him an opportunity to put himself back in the national-team conversation.
Pressure is mounting at Naturena
Mokwana’s potential arrival comes at a challenging time for Chiefs and their coach.
Amakhosi are reportedly 12 points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns after nine matches. That gap has increased the scrutiny on Da Cruz and raised questions about whether his squad has enough quality to compete at the top end of the table.
Mokwana could provide an important boost, but he will need to deliver on the pitch if the reported transfer is to be considered a success.
Can Elias Mokwana rediscover his Sekhukhune United form at Kaizer Chiefs? And is a reported R11 million move a smart investment for Amakhosi? Share your thoughts.
