Mosimane faces Bafana Bafana injury crisis before expected return

Pitso Mosimane could inherit a depleted Bafana Bafana squad if his expected return as South Africa head coach is formally confirmed, with several key players facing fitness concerns before the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The South African Football Association National Executive Committee has endorsed Mosimane as its preferred candidate to replace Hugo Broos, although his appointment has not yet been finalised.

If the process is completed as expected, Mosimane’s first competitive matches in a second spell in charge will come during the September international window. South Africa are due to begin their qualifying campaign at home against Guinea before travelling to play Eritrea.

The former Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns manager may, however, have limited options from the outset, particularly in defence.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khuliso Mudau and Khulumani Ndamane are all reported to be dealing with injury concerns. Each has featured in Bafana Bafana’s recent plans, and their possible absence could force Mosimane to make early changes in an area where maintaining continuity may be important.

The defensive uncertainty is not the only issue facing the anticipated new coach. Teboho Mokoena is also on the injury list, creating a further concern in midfield.

Mokoena has become one of South Africa’s most influential midfielders in recent years, while Thalente Mbatha has also developed into an important option for the national side.

There are questions in attack as well, with Evidence Makgopa and Tshepang Moremi among those whose availability is currently uncertain.

The seriousness of the injuries and the expected recovery periods should become clearer as the September break approaches. But with concerns spread across defence, midfield and attack, Mosimane could be required to solve several selection problems before he has had the opportunity to fully implement his methods.

South Africa are scheduled to host Guinea between 23 and 25 September, although the venue for that fixture has not yet been announced. They are then expected to travel to face Eritrea between 27 and 29 September.

The short gap between the two matches means there would be little opportunity for experimentation if a number of established players are unable to return in time. It also makes a positive start to qualifying particularly important for Bafana Bafana.

Should Mosimane’s appointment be completed, his initial challenge will extend beyond introducing his ideas and re-establishing his authority within the national team. He will also need to identify suitable replacements and find a balanced squad if injuries continue to affect his preferred players.

The hope within the Bafana Bafana set-up will be that as many of those currently sidelined can regain full fitness before the qualifiers begin. However, the number of doubts already surrounding the squad could make the opening stage of Mosimane’s anticipated second tenure a demanding one.