South African national team Siyabonga Ngezana faces AFCON 2025 uncertainty after injury

Siyabonga Ngezana may miss the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after suffering an injury during the fifth round of the Romanian Superliga.

The Bafana Bafana centre-back left the pitch early in Steaua Bucharest’s derby against Dinamo Bucharest, raising doubts over his availability for Hugo Broos’ squad in Morocco.

The 28-year-old defender remains in Romania with his club while other South African internationals have already joined the national team’s training camp in Pretoria.

His arrival is pending the FIFA player release deadline, leaving uncertainty over whether he can join Bafana Bafana in time for the tournament.

Steaua Bucharest will also face Feyenoord in an upcoming Europa League fixture, and Ngezana’s participation in the match is now unclear.

The club has questioned the seriousness of his injury, suggesting he may have intentionally avoided the final 45 minutes of the derby.

Club officials imply that his decision could relate to his imminent departure to join the national team, further complicating the situation.

The incident has sparked debate in South African football circles, as fans and analysts weigh the implications for the national team’s defensive line.

Ngezana has been a key figure for Bafana Bafana, and his potential absence would require Broos to adjust his backline and tactical plans ahead of the continental tournament.

Medical staff and coaching teams from both club and country continue to monitor the situation closely.

They aim to determine the player’s fitness and manage his workload carefully, balancing recovery with preparation for AFCON 2025.

With the tournament approaching rapidly, South Africa faces pressure to confirm its final squad and ensure all players arrive in optimal condition.

Ngezana’s condition remains a focal point, and his availability could influence both Steaua Bucharest’s European campaign and Bafana Bafana’s performance in Morocco.