Tlale backs Orlando Pirates pair to replace injured Mbokazi and Mudau

Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper John Tlale believes Orlando Pirates defenders Kamogelo Sebelebele and Lebone Seema can replace the injured Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Khuliso Mudau.

Mbokazi, a centre-back with Chicago Fire, sustained a severe tear to his left thigh shortly after returning from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mudau, who plays at right-back for Mamelodi Sundowns, suffered a complete rupture of his Achilles tendon and is expected to be sidelined for six months.

South Africa will begin their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Guinea at Orlando Stadium on September 26, 2026. Bafana Bafana will then face Eritrea at Al-Salam Stadium in Egypt on Wednesday, September 30.

Tlale acknowledged the difficulty of replacing two established defenders but said South Africa had enough depth within their squad.

“It’s going to be difficult to replace those two key defenders for Bafana Bafana; it’s possible but not easy,” Tlale told KickOff.

“But I believe we have depth in our pool of players; we have Kamogelo Sebelebele, and we also have Lebone Seema, both capable of playing in Mudau and Mbokazi’s positions,” he added.

Sebelebele has been identified as the most natural option to cover for Mudau on the right side of defence. Tlale believes the Orlando Pirates player can provide the energy needed to operate along the flank while also offering an attacking threat.

“Sebelebele can cover for Mudau, especially when it comes to moving up and down the flank. He can also contribute offensively,” Tlale said.

Seema, also of Orlando Pirates, has been suggested as the replacement for Mbokazi in central defence. Tlale praised his defensive ability and said he should be trusted in the position rather than South Africa expecting major problems at the heart of the defence.

“Also from Pirates, it’s Seema. He is a very good defender, no mistake. I don’t think we will face much trouble in central defence; he will do well. They just need to play him there,” he said.

The injuries leave Bafana Bafana without two key members of their defensive options for the upcoming qualifiers. Tlale remains confident that the Orlando Pirates pair can respond to the challenge and cover the vacancies created by the absences of Mbokazi and Mudau.

“I think both of them will do their best to fill the gap created by the injuries to the two stalwarts, Mbokazi and Mudau,” he said.