“I cannot sit at home and do nothing. Now I am working for my children and family,” said former Mamelodi Sundowns defender.

Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Lovers Mohlala. Image: X

Former Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Lovers Mohlala is now working in the mines, two decades after retiring from professional football.

At 48 years old, he was known as a hard tackler during the 90s and 2000s, having played for clubs such as Wits University, Jomo Cosmos, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Moroka Swallows. Since hanging up his boots in his mid-30s, Mohlala has faced challenges, often struggling with unemployment and a lack of income.

During his time with Sundowns, the retired defender was well-known for his lively lifestyle. However, unemployment and hardships eventually led Mohlala to take a job in the mines after receiving assistance from a friend.

“I cannot sit at home and do nothing. Now I am working for my children and family,” he told Sunday World last year.

“I am the stockpile manager and a friend of mine hooked me up with the mine boss, who is also a friend. Unfortunately, I cannot disclose the name of the mine and other details.”

Former Sundowns defender goes from farming into mining

Mohlala made his name as a hard-tackling defender and was part of the Mamelodi Sundowns golden generation between 1998-2001.

“A man must be busy and not be idling. I am also selling livestock in Brits and meat in Brakpan. My family (wife and kids) are in the East Rand while I am mostly based in North-West province,” the former left-back added.

Mohlala was one of the best left-footed defenders in the PSL in the late 90s at Sundowns, however his career went south when he left Masandawana.