World Cup 2026: South Africa coach Hugo Broos provides positive injury update on Aubrey Modiba

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has provided a positive injury update on experienced left-back Aubrey Modiba, revealing the Mamelodi Sundowns star will be ready for their 2026 World Cup opener.

Modiba, who plays his club football for Mamelodi Sundowns, arrived at national team camp carrying an injury picked up during the latter stages of the CAF Champions League final.

The defender reportedly limped off during the first leg of the decisive tie and was subsequently replaced in the second leg by Divine Lunga, underlining the extent of his physical concerns.

According to Broos, the technical and medical departments are jointly overseeing Modiba’s rehabilitation, with the priority being full fitness for the opening World Cup fixture rather than risking him in a friendly match. The Belgian coach made it clear that the squad will not take unnecessary risks with one of their key defensive players.

Speaking before the team’s departure to Mexico, Broos explained that Modiba is edging closer to full training but will likely be held back for the Jamaica clash as a precautionary measure.

“I think Aubrey is very close to training with the group, [if] everything goes very well with him,” Broos said. “So I expect him, maybe not for the game against Jamaica. We will not take any risk with him, but I’m pretty sure that he will be there for the opening game.”

The update will be a relief for South Africa supporters, as Modiba remains a key figure in Broos’ tactical setup, valued for his defensive stability and ability to contribute in advanced areas from the left flank.

Bafana Bafana continue their final phase of preparation ahead of the World Cup, where they have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Mexico, South Korea, and the Czech Republic. The team’s build-up has focused heavily on squad fitness and tactical cohesion, with Broos keen to ensure all key players are available for the tournament’s opening fixture.

For now, Modiba’s absence against Jamaica is seen purely as a precautionary decision, with optimism growing within the camp that he will recover in time to play a crucial role when South Africa begin their global campaign.