Bafana Bafana will be without key midfielders Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba for Wednesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eritrea in Cairo.
The Mamelodi Sundowns duo picked up injuries during South Africa’s 2-1 victory over Guinea at Orlando Stadium on Saturday and have been unable to train since joining the squad in Egypt.
Head coach Pitso Mosimane confirmed that scans have ruled both players out of Wednesday’s encounter, with only slim hopes of seeing them return for Sunday’s international friendly against Egypt.
Their absence leaves Bafana with some selection decisions to make ahead of the Eritrea fixture.
Samukele Kabini is expected to come into the starting XI at left-back in place of Modiba, while Bathusi Aubaas and Sphephelo Sithole are likely to be considered for increased responsibilities in midfield following Mokoena’s withdrawal.
South Africa will be looking to build on their positive start to the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign after securing all three points against Guinea.
The Eritrea match presents another opportunity for Mosimane’s side to strengthen their position in the qualifying group, although the injuries to Mokoena and Modiba have disrupted preparations ahead of the important encounter.
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