Polokwane City Coach Phuti Mohafe Questions Lebohang Maboe’s Man of the Match Award After Chiefs Draw
Polokwane City head coach Phuti Mohafe has openly questioned the decision to award Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe the Man of the Match after a tightly contested goalless draw at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. The match, played on Saturday, ended 0-0, with Chiefs failing to extend their winning streak that had lasted since March. Despite the result, Chiefs controlled more of the game with 54% possession and completed 293 passes compared to Polokwane City’s 224. The statistics suggested dominance in ball control, but Mohafe argued that possession alone did not reflect true impact on the match. His post-match comments quickly drew attention due to their direct criticism of the award decision.
Mohafe expressed clear confusion over how Maboe was selected as the standout player of the match. He insisted that the midfielder had very little influence on the game and was effectively contained by Polokwane City’s defensive structure. According to Mohafe, Maboe lost possession on several occasions and was constantly pressured whenever he received the ball. He credited his own midfield unit, particularly Manuel Kambala, for neutralising the Chiefs playmaker. In his view, Maboe’s contribution did not match the level required to earn such recognition.
The Polokwane City coach argued that his team performed better in key moments, even if the match ended without goals. He highlighted that breaking up play and limiting dangerous attacks should also count heavily when evaluating individual performances. Mohafe pointed out that Polokwane City were effective in disrupting Chiefs’ rhythm throughout the game. He believed this defensive discipline was overlooked when the award was given. His comments suggested frustration with how match impact is assessed beyond traditional possession statistics.
Mohafe also used the opportunity to highlight players he felt were more deserving of recognition. He named left back and winger Tlou Nkwe as well as forward Simon Ramabu as standout performers for Polokwane City. He praised Nkwe for his defensive work and ability to handle pressure on the left flank. Ramabu was credited for causing problems on the right side and creating attacking momentum for his team. Mohafe’s remarks reflected his belief that match awards should reflect influence on both defensive and attacking phases.
He further reinforced his argument by pointing back to Kambala’s marking role on Maboe. Mohafe suggested that the midfielder’s effectiveness was largely due to how well his team executed their defensive plan. He implied that neutralising a key opponent should be valued more when determining individual honours. For him, football performance is not only about technical statistics but also about control and disruption. This perspective formed the core of his disagreement with the final decision.
The debate over Maboe’s award adds another layer of discussion to Chiefs’ recent performances, especially as they were held for the first time in six matches. While the draw may have ended their winning run, it still showed their ability to control possession even without breaking through defensively organised teams. Mohafe’s comments, however, shift attention toward how individual excellence is judged in tightly contested matches. His stance raises broader questions about the criteria used in awarding Man of the Match in modern football.
Phuti Mohafe’s criticism of Lebohang Maboe’s Man of the Match award reflects a deeper disagreement about how football performances are evaluated. While statistics showed Kaizer Chiefs’ dominance in possession, Polokwane City’s coach argued that true impact comes from effectiveness under pressure and defensive discipline. His comments highlighted players he felt influenced the game more directly, challenging the final decision made after the match. The incident underscores the ongoing debate in football about whether awards should prioritise numbers or influence on the overall flow of the game.
