Kaizer Chiefs are facing an anxious wait over the fitness of midfielder Lebohang Maboe after the experienced playmaker withdrew from the Bafana Bafana squad because of injury.
Maboe had been rewarded with a national-team call-up after making an encouraging start to the 2026/27 campaign. The 32-year-old has scored twice and provided two assists in seven league appearances, making his absence a concern for both Chiefs and South Africa.
The midfielder is now awaiting further clarity on the extent of the injury and how long he could be sidelined.
Maboe’s Bafana opportunity interrupted
Maboe’s performances in midfield earned him a place in Pitso Mosimane’s squad for the upcoming international window.
However, the injury has forced him to withdraw before Mosimane’s second spell in charge of Bafana Bafana gets fully underway.
For Chiefs, the priority will now be establishing the severity of the problem and determining when Maboe can return to competitive action.
Chiefs dealing with several injuries
Maboe is not the only Chiefs player currently dealing with an injury setback.
Goalkeeper Brandon Petersen has suffered a knee injury and is expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks.
Striker Wandile Duba is also unavailable after picking up a hip and groin problem, with his recovery expected to take around two weeks. Duba had made an impressive start to the campaign, scoring three goals in four Betway Premiership appearances.
Thabiso Monyane is another player currently unavailable to the club.
The timing of some of these injuries could prove significant, with the international break providing an opportunity for several players to recover before domestic action resumes.
Maboe’s absence adds to Bafana changes
Maboe’s withdrawal means Mosimane will have to work with a slightly altered squad as Bafana prepare for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
South Africa are scheduled to face Guinea before travelling to Egypt to take on Eritrea.
Mosimane will be hoping his players can make a strong start to his second tenure, while Chiefs will be monitoring Maboe’s recovery closely.
For the Amakhosi, the key question is now simple: when will Maboe be fit to return?
Kaizer Chiefs injury update
- Lebohang Maboe: Withdrawn from Bafana squad because of injury; further assessment required.
- Brandon Petersen: Knee injury; expected out for up to six weeks.
- Wandile Duba: Hip/groin injury; expected out for around two weeks.
- Thabiso Monyane: Currently unavailable.
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