Maboe’s Bafana Bafana return in doubt after Chiefs injury

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe’s return to Bafana Bafana is uncertain after he was forced off injured during Sunday’s match.

The 32-year-old was substituted at half-time after experiencing discomfort, shortly after his penalty had been saved. Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko came on in his place.

Maboe’s injury comes as Bafana Bafana prepare for their 2027 AFCON qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, as well as a friendly against Egypt. He was recalled to the national team by coach Pitso Mosimane, having last represented South Africa in June 2021.

“Obviously the doctors will examine him,” Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Dillon Sheppard said after Sunday’s game.

“For Lebo to go down, he was in pain.

“Hopefully it is just a slight ankle sprain, and he will be ready for the national team.”

A further update on Maboe’s condition is expected from the Bafana Bafana camp on Monday afternoon.

His latest call-up marks a return to the national squad five years after his previous cap. Maboe spent seven years under contract at Sundowns before returning to the international setup.

His last appearance for Bafana Bafana came in June 2021, at the beginning of Hugo Broos’ reign, although Broos was not on the bench for that match.

The extent of Maboe’s injury will determine whether he can take part in the forthcoming fixtures against Guinea, Eritrea and Egypt.

Photo: Kabelo Leputu/Gallo Images