‘I suit Europe more’
Bafana Bafana striker Lebo Mothiba looked poised to develop into the nation’s next talisman after scoring four goals in his first five caps whilst finding the net 12 times and winning the Coupe de La Ligue with Racing Club Strasbourg in France. But injuries slowed down his progression, resulting in a dip in form since his incredible 2018/19 breakthrough season. The 24-year-old has since gone under the knife to finally heal the tendons in his knee and nearly 10 months later, he’s ready to return to the pitch with the promise of reaching new heights. KICK OFF’s Lorenz Köhler caught up with the striker to find out about his recovery process, lockdown in France and his ambitions in Ligue 1.
KICK OFF: Thank you for speaking to us Lebo. Your first season with RC Strasbourg after leaving LOSC Lille was memorable, 12 goals, the Coupe de la Ligue success and regular game-time in one of Europe’s top-five leagues. How frustrating have your injuries been knowing how it’s prevented your progression?
Having an injury, it’s a setback but you have to come back stronger. I think I will do even better than I did in my first season with Strasbourg when I get back [to the pitch]. Scoring goals is not the problem, you just have to come back fitter, stronger and play without pain. That’s the most important thing
