South Africa defender Siyabonga Ngezana returns to training after lengthy injury layoff in Romania

South Africa international Siyabonga Ngezana has returned to group training with Romanian giants FCSB after spending several months on the sidelines with a knee injury.

The 29-year-old centre-back was pictured training with his teammates this week as he continues his recovery from surgery, raising hopes of a return to competitive action after a difficult spell with injuries.

Ngezana underwent knee surgery in early June after struggling with the problem, which initially occurred while representing Bafana Bafana at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before being aggravated upon his return to FCSB.

The former Kaizer Chiefs defender continued playing for a period despite the discomfort, delaying surgery in the hope of securing a place in South Africa’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, after missing out on the tournament squad, Ngezana eventually underwent surgery and began his rehabilitation programme.

His last competitive appearance came in mid-May, and he has yet to feature for FCSB in the 2026/27 campaign. Although his return to group training represents an important step forward, the Romanian club has not confirmed when he will be ready to return to competitive action.

The defender still needs to regain full match fitness before making his comeback, meaning his availability for upcoming fixtures remains uncertain.

Ngezana’s return to training will also be encouraging news for Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane as he assesses his defensive options ahead of the November international window.

South Africa are scheduled to face Kenya twice in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, although it remains unclear whether Ngezana will be fit enough to feature in those encounters.

Competition for places in the national team’s central defence remains strong, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya, Khulumani Ndamane, Lebone Seema and Nkosinathi Sibisi among the available options.

Ngezana has earned 14 senior caps for South Africa and featured in every minute of Bafana Bafana’s four matches at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before his injury setback.

His return to group training is therefore a significant development for both club and country as he works towards regaining full fitness and returning to action.