Kaizer Chiefs have given new signing Elias Mokwana a shirt number with a special place in the club’s history. The former Bafana Bafana winger will wear the number 14 jersey, previously associated with Amakhosi legend Simphiwe Tshabalala.
The announcement adds another interesting chapter to Mokwana’s arrival at Naturena, with the 27-year-old returning to South African football after spells in Tunisia and Saudi Arabia.
Mokwana takes over Simphiwe Tshabalala’s famous number 14
Mokwana’s number 14 shirt carries a strong connection to Kaizer Chiefs supporters, having previously been worn by the legendary Tshabalala.
Tshabalala remains one of the club’s most recognisable figures, and his association with the number gives Mokwana an opportunity to create his own legacy in the famous gold and black colours.
The new Chiefs winger is known for his pace, close control, agility and ability to take on defenders. Comfortable operating on either flank, he offers the Soweto giants another attacking option as they look to strengthen their squad.
Born in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, Mokwana’s journey to the top of South African football was far from straightforward.
From the ABC Motsepe League to the big stage
Mokwana began his senior career with Gemsbok Classic in the ABC Motsepe League before earning a move to National First Division outfit Platinum City Rovers.
He made 22 appearances for Rovers, scoring three goals. His performances opened the door to the top flight, where he joined Sekhukhune United in May 2022 on a three-year contract.
Mokwana made more than 50 league appearances for Sekhukhune and steadily established himself as one of the exciting attacking talents in the domestic game.
His progress also earned him a place in the Bafana Bafana setup, making his international debut in November 2023.
International success and experience abroad
Mokwana’s international career has included a bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations, while he has also contributed important goals for South Africa in matches against Andorra and Congo.
In August 2024, he secured a move to Tunisian giants Espérance de Tunis, signing a three-year deal.
His time in Tunisia brought considerable success. Mokwana featured in more than 30 matches across competitions and was part of the team that won the league title, Tunisian Cup and Tunisian Super Cup.
He subsequently moved to Saudi Arabia in August 2025, joining Al-Hazem on a season-long loan.
The winger made 24 appearances, including 16 starts, and scored a memorable individual goal against Al-Taawoun.
Now back in South Africa, Mokwana will be hoping to bring that international experience and attacking quality to Kaizer Chiefs.
Can Mokwana make the number 14 jersey his own?
Taking over a shirt number associated with a club legend brings its own expectations. However, Mokwana will need to focus on delivering consistent performances rather than the history attached to his new number.
Chiefs supporters will be eager to see whether his speed, direct running and ability to beat defenders can make a difference in the final third.
The big question is whether Mokwana can become a key figure in the Amakhosi attack and write a memorable chapter of his own in the number 14 jersey.
What are your expectations for Elias Mokwana at Kaizer Chiefs? Can he live up to the legacy associated with Simphiwe Tshabalala’s number 14?
