Sundowns Trio Raise Fresh Injury Concerns Ahead of Bafana Bafana's Kenya Doubleheader

Bafana Bafana could face another selection headache ahead of their crucial back-to-back 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying encounters against Kenya, with injuries to three Mamelodi Sundowns players raising concerns about their availability for the national team.

Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas are among the Sundowns players whose injury situations have attracted attention following South Africa's September 2026 international commitments. Their fitness could become an important consideration as preparations intensify for the upcoming matches.

The situation presents a potential challenge for national team coach Pitso Mosimane, considering the significant contribution Sundowns players make to Bafana Bafana. The three players bring valuable experience, technical ability and tactical versatility, making their availability important when the national team prepares for demanding international assignments.

Modiba has established himself as an important option on the left side of defence, while Mokoena's qualities in midfield make him a valuable member of the national team. Aubaas also provides additional depth and competition in the middle of the park.

Their respective injury concerns could therefore force Mosimane to reconsider some of his preferred combinations should they fail to recover in time.

South Africa cannot afford unnecessary setbacks as the team continues its campaign in Group D, which also features Kenya, Guinea and Eritrea. Kenya, as one of the 2027 AFCON co-hosts, has already secured qualification, leaving the remaining teams competing for their places at the tournament.

The upcoming doubleheader will provide Bafana Bafana with an important opportunity to strengthen their qualification prospects. However, the availability of key players could influence the team's preparations and overall performance.

While the injuries present a concern, they could also create opportunities for other players to demonstrate their abilities and earn opportunities in the national team.

Mosimane will be hoping for positive recovery updates on Modiba, Mokoena and Aubaas as Bafana Bafana prepare for their important assignments against Kenya.

Source

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