Mosimane backs injured Aubaas to return to Bafana Bafana

Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has assured Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Bathusi Aubaas that he remains part of his plans after another injury setback in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eritrea.

Aubaas was forced off early in the match at Al Salam Stadium in Cairo, becoming the third central midfielder to suffer an injury during the current national-team camp after Lebohang Maboe and Teboho Mokoena.

His absence leaves South Africa short of options in the middle of the pitch before Sunday’s friendly international against Egypt, although Brooklyn Poggenpoel’s composed debut has provided Mosimane with some encouragement.

South Africa eased to a 5-0 victory over Eritrea, taking their points tally to six from their opening two Group D matches and strengthening their position at the top of the AFCON qualifying group.

Mosimane offers support to Aubaas

Aubaas also missed the World Cup because of injury, and Mosimane said the latest setback had been particularly difficult for the midfielder.

“Aubaas is one unfortunate player. He missed the World Cup because of injury and he was ready to come on and to play,” Mosimane told the media after the match.

“Again, (he) broke down. Shame, he was crying in the dressing room, but we are there to support him and give him confidence. He is a very good football player. It was his chance to play again because he missed the World Cup. He will soon be back in the national team. We have patience with him.”

Poggenpoel came on in Aubaas’ place and impressed on his first appearance for Bafana Bafana. His performance was especially welcome with several midfielders unavailable for the Egypt fixture.

“Teboho is out with injury; Aubaas is out with injury. So, we are losing a lot of players in the midfield, but it also gave Brooklyn a chance to play in his debut, and he played very well. He played like he has been playing all the time,” Mosimane said.

The coach added that Themba Zwane had been moved into midfield because he wanted to withdraw Sphephelo Sithole, also known as Yaya, who is now the only experienced central midfielder available.

“We are a little bit thin against Egypt with central midfielders,” Mosimane said. “We don’t have Teboho, we don’t have (Thalente) Mbatha, we lost Jayden (Adams), and we don’t have Aubaas. So, it’s a little bit unfortunate for us. We are loaded with wingers and full backs.”

Mosimane praised the team’s response against Eritrea, who had started strongly and hit the post. He also highlighted the threat posed by their number 10.

South Africa will next face Benni McCarthy’s Kenya side twice in November.

“We are happy with five goals, we are happy with three points,” Mosimane said. “Two games, six points. Good performance from our boys.”