Bafana Bafana, the South African national soccer team, has been dealt a double injury blow ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eritrea. Head coach Pitso Mosimane confirmed that Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba have been ruled out of the match due to injuries sustained during their previous game against Guinea. The pair, both from Mamelodi Sundowns, have not trained since arriving in Cairo and have been confirmed unfit for the upcoming match.
Mokoena and Modiba's injuries occurred during Saturday's 2-1 victory over Guinea at the Orlando Amstel Arena. Modiba was forced off in the second half, while Mokoena played through discomfort in the closing stages. Mosimane revealed that Mokoena had wanted to remain on the pitch despite the problem, as all substitutions had already been used. The coach praised Mokoena's dedication, saying he "gave us everything to finish the game."
Scans have confirmed that both players are injured, ruling them out of the second Group D qualifier against Eritrea. Mosimane expressed disappointment at the loss of the two established internationals but emphasized that there was little choice given their injuries. He stated, "Who would not use the players who have helped us to be where we are at this point in time? Unfortunately, they will not be available."
The absence of Mokoena and Modiba leaves Mosimane with selection dilemmas. Samukele Kabini could move into the left-back position in Modiba's absence, while Bathusi Aubaas and Sphephelo Sithole are options to replace Mokoena in midfield. Relebohile Mofokeng may operate further forward. Mosimane acknowledged that losing the pair is a blow but stressed that the team's medical staff will work to get them fit for future matches.
Both Mokoena and Modiba have remained with the squad while receiving treatment. However, their availability for Sunday's friendly against Egypt is also in serious doubt. Mosimane expressed hope that the pair can recover in time for the Egypt match but admitted that the chances are minimal. The coach emphasized the importance of the players' rest and recovery.
Bafana Bafana face Eritrea at the Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo on Wednesday, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm South African time. The team will look to build on their winning start to the campaign despite the absence of two key players. Mosimane will have to make tactical adjustments to ensure a strong performance against Eritrea.
The injuries to Mokoena and Modiba come as a setback to Bafana Bafana's AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign. The team will need to adapt quickly to overcome the challenges posed by Eritrea. The coaching staff will work to find suitable replacements and make necessary adjustments to the team's strategy.
Key points
- Bafana Bafana's Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba are ruled out of the AFCON qualifier against Eritrea due to injuries.
- The pair's absence leaves coach Pitso Mosimane with selection dilemmas in defense and midfield.
- Their availability for Sunday's friendly against Egypt is also in doubt.
