One of the members of the winning Bafana squad of 96 was John Tlale, who was a reserve goalkeeper to Andre Arendse, but is now a no second fiddle business tycoon in Welkom, Free State.
The Machabeng-born former Mamelodi Sundowns star shot stopper runs the family construction business in Machabeng township in Welkom, which he described as ‘standing its own ground’ in the construction industry in the area.
The last time Alex News had contact with Tlale was when he was the assistant coach to the late John ‘Shoes’ Moshoeu at Alex United, which is an ABC Motsepe League outfit from the country’s oldest township.
“I was called upon by the family to take care of the business and guide it to fruition,” he said. “As a former keeper who stopped most of the unwanted intrusions in-between the goal posts, I think I am the right man for this family task.”
But Tlale, who is a qualified coach, said he was not lost to football as yet. “I will bounce back once this assignment I have been given is firmly on the right track. I am still eager to play a meaningful role in our soccer,” added Tlale ahead of the induction of the Class of 96 team into the Sun International Hall of Fame on 20 August.
Tlale said he missed ‘his brother’ Moshoeu. “He and I had a lot of synergy and a lot going. I miss him dearly and may his soul and that of Sizwe Motaung, rest in peace. They may not be around us anymore but they’re not forgotten.
“This induction will further strengthen our memory of them. Each time we and other people come here, we shall be able to see them and the contribution they made to football in this, more so for the 96 Afcon winning squad.”
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