Pitso Mosimane could have a significantly stronger Bafana Bafana squad to work with when South Africa face Kenya in the next round of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Injuries disrupted Mosimane’s first matches back in charge, with several established players unavailable or forced to miss games.
The situation could change in November, however, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa and Aubrey Modiba among the players who could return to contention.
Bafana face Kenya twice in November
South Africa are scheduled to face Kenya twice during the November international window.
Bafana will host the Harambee Stars on 13 November, before travelling for the return fixture on 17 November.
The venues and kick-off times have yet to be confirmed.
Kenya already have their place at the 2027 AFCON secured as co-hosts, meaning the pressure will be firmly on the other teams competing for the remaining qualification spot in the group.
Bafana currently lead the standings with six points, with Guinea behind them.
The November double-header could therefore prove crucial before the qualifiers enter a lengthy break ahead of the final matches in March 2027.
Mbokazi ready to strengthen the defence
One of the biggest potential boosts for Mosimane is the return of Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
The centre-back made his comeback from a thigh injury on 26 September, completing 80 minutes for Chicago Fire against Charlotte FC.
His return gives Mosimane another defensive option as Bafana look to maintain their position at the top of the group.
Teboho Mokoena could also be back after missing the recent matches against Eritrea and Egypt because of injury.
Mosimane remains hopeful that the influential midfielder will recover in time for the November qualifiers.
“I hope those injured will come back. I saw Mbokazi playing; Teboho is not bad. He will also come back to play,” Mosimane said after the victory over Egypt.
Pirates duo working their way back
Orlando Pirates could also provide Bafana with two important reinforcements.
Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa are both working towards full fitness, with Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou reportedly confirming that the pair have returned to full-team training.
Their availability would give Mosimane additional options in midfield and attack.
Aubrey Modiba is another player expected to return to action soon after missing the Egypt match.
Who could remain unavailable?
Not everyone is expected to return in time.
Bathusi Aubaas suffered a leg injury against Eritrea and could face an extended spell on the sidelines.
Khuliso Mudau is also facing a lengthy absence after suffering an Achilles tendon injury in August.
There are also questions surrounding Lyle Foster’s future with Bafana after the Houston Dynamo forward was left out of Mosimane’s first squad.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates defender Sihle Nduli still has rehabilitation work to complete before returning to full training.
Mosimane could have selection headaches
The November fixtures could therefore present Mosimane with a very different selection challenge.
Instead of dealing with a depleted squad, the Bafana coach could have several key players back and competing for places.
With South Africa leading their AFCON qualifying group, getting the balance right against Kenya could be crucial.
Which returning Bafana star would make the biggest difference against Kenya?
