Bafana Bafana have suffered a significant setback ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eritrea, with coach Pitso Mosimane confirming that two key players will miss the match.
Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba, both of Mamelodi Sundowns, have been ruled out after picking up injuries during South Africa’s 2-1 victory over Guinea in Soweto.
Their absence leaves Mosimane with important decisions to make as Bafana prepare for Wednesday evening’s clash at the Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo.
Mokoena and Modiba ruled out
Modiba was forced off during the second half against Guinea after experiencing hamstring tightness following a demanding spell on the pitch.
Mokoena, meanwhile, battled through the closing stages despite discomfort. With Bafana having used all their available substitution opportunities, the midfielder stayed on and helped South Africa see out the victory.
However, medical assessments in Egypt have now confirmed that neither player will be available against Eritrea.
Mosimane revealed that the pair have not trained since the squad arrived in Cairo and were sent for scans by the team’s medical staff.
“Aubrey is not available; Teboho is not available. They haven’t trained since we came. The doctor took them for scans, and the scans, in a nutshell, showed that they are injured, and we can’t use them.”
The coach also acknowledged the importance of both players to the team’s recent performances.
Who can replace Modiba?
Modiba’s absence could open the door for Samukele Kabini or Fawaaz Basadien.
Kabini, 22, has four international caps and plays for Malmö, while Basadien, 29, is a teammate of Modiba at Mamelodi Sundowns and has five appearances for South Africa.
Both players could now be considered for the left-back position as Mosimane reshuffles his starting XI.
Who replaces Mokoena in midfield?
The midfield vacancy could provide an opportunity for Bathusi Aubaas or Brooklyn Poggenpoel.
Aubaas brings considerable international experience, having collected 17 caps and featured for Bafana in major competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup.
Poggenpoel, meanwhile, is still waiting to make his competitive debut for the senior national team. The 23-year-old Durban City midfielder could now find himself in contention for an important role.
Mosimane faces early selection test
The injuries underline the physical demands placed on Bafana during a busy international period.
Mosimane had previously opted for a 30-man squad, giving him additional depth to work with during his second spell in charge.
With Mokoena and Modiba unavailable, that squad depth will now be tested.
The immediate priority is the AFCON qualifier against Eritrea, before South Africa turn their attention to a friendly against Egypt on Sunday.
Mosimane has already confirmed that the two injured players are unlikely to recover in time for that match either.
Who should replace Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba against Eritrea? Have your say in the comments.
