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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Morena was introduced at half time against Zimbabwe</li><li>He then scored a brace in the 3-1 win</li><li>The Downs star comments on his performance</li></ul>

Mamelodi Sundowns star Thapelo Morena explains 'emotional' Bafana Bafana outing, holds no grudge about Hugo Broos benching him

Mamelodi Sundowns' versatile player Thapelo Morena has described his showing against Zimbabwe as "emotional".Morena made a telling contribution in <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-za/lists/2026-world-cup-qualifiers-thapelo-morena-s-brace-inspires-bafana-bafana-to-victory-over-zimbabwe-in-group-c/blt068f247e8bb10054" target="_blank">Bafana Bafana's 3-1 victory over the Warriors </a>at Free State Stadium on Tuesday.The 30-year-old came on as a substitute to score a brace in the crucial win over their neighbours in this 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier.After the win, South Africa moved to second position in Group C and Morena is pleased with the impact he made.

WHAT HAPPENED?

“Firstly, coming to Bloem is something different, the feeling is amazing," said Morena as per <a href="https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/sport/soccer/2024-06-12-playing-in-bloem-was-full-circle-moment-for-me-morena/" target="_blank">Sowetan Live.</a>"I had told the guys that in Bloem we will have more supporters, so we must work very hard and give them a good show on the pitch.“Scoring two goals here was very emotional for me, because I know I played here and I have a lot of history at this stadium even at Dr Molemela Stadium, so I had to do my level best to give the supporters the best they know me for."As the team, we wanted to give back to the Bloemfontein fans and the nation at large,'' the former Bloemfontein Celtic star added.“Like the coach always says, every player is important. When you are sitting on the bench, you can see the match a bit differently because you have the side view and obviously you can hear the instructions from the coaches."So, for me it has always been important to stay focused, believing that I'd come in and deliver.''

WHAT  MORENA SAID

Morena was back at his former home in Bloemfontein where he got recognised while turning out for Phunya Sele Sele.He was bright on the evening and could make coach Hugo Broos start him in future matches as he has spent much time coming on from the bench under the Belgian, something he has no qualms about.Interestingly, it was the Randfontein-bred player's first-ever goal in Bafana colours since making his debut in May 2015.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Morena will now go for the off-season break hoping to come back with more energy next season.He is one of the most experienced Sundowns players to bank on in their bid to win the elusive Caf Champions League.

WHAT NEXT FOR MORENA?

Mamelodi Sundowns star Thapelo Morena explains 'emotional' Bafana Bafana outing, holds no grudge about Hugo Broos benching him | Goal.com

The Masandawana utility player came on at the start of the second half to have a huge say in South Africa&apos;s victory over neighbors Zimbabwe. 