Pitso Mosimane could have several important players back when Bafana Bafana resume their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Kenya in November.
South Africa face the Harambee Stars twice, hosting the first match on 13 November before travelling for the return fixture on 17 November. The South African Football Association website says the kick-off times and venues for both games have not yet been confirmed.
Kenya have already secured their place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts, leaving one qualification spot available in the group. Bafana Bafana currently lead the standings on 6 points, with Guinea second.
Although Kenya are guaranteed a place in the tournament, their results could still affect the other teams in the group. The qualifying campaign will then pause after the November fixtures, with the final matches scheduled for March 2027.
Centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi is among those who could return after recovering from a thigh injury. He made his comeback on 26 September, playing 80 minutes in Chicago Fire’s victory over Charlotte FC and making a decisive goal-line clearance.
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena was forced off during South Africa’s 2-1 win over Guinea and was subsequently omitted from the 5-0 victory against Eritrea and the 1-0 friendly win over Egypt. However, a KickOff report suggests he should be available for Mamelodi Sundowns’ MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates this weekend.
Aubrey Modiba also missed the match against Egypt in Cairo. The left-back is expected to return to action as early as this weekend.
Mosimane has said he wants the absent players to be considered again when the AFCON qualifiers resume in November. Speaking after the victory over Egypt, according to FARpost, he outlined his desire to have them back in the squad.
Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha and forward Evidence Makgopa are also working towards full fitness. Africa Soccer reported that Pirates manager Abdeslam Ouaddou confirmed both players had returned to full-team training.
Bathusi Aubaas was unavailable for the Egypt match after sustaining a leg injury against Eritrea. Mamelodi Sundowns have not disclosed the seriousness of the problem, although reports suggest he could face an extended spell on the sidelines.
Khuliso Mudau will not be available until early next year after rupturing his Achilles tendon in August.
One notable omission from Mosimane’s first Bafana Bafana squad was Houston Dynamo forward Lyle Foster. He has recently made his debut for the MLS club, but the belief is that he may continue to miss out for South Africa.
Sihle Nduli, meanwhile, faces a two-week rehabilitation period before he can return to full-team training with Orlando Pirates.