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Pitso Mosimane, the head coach of Bafana Bafana, may have trouble choosing players before South Africa's consecutive 2027 A number of important Mamelodi Sundowns players are injured in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification matches against Kenya.
According to the most recent sources, after their international obligations in September 2026, Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena, and Bathusi Aubaas all sustained injuries. As Mosimane gets his team ready for the forthcoming matches, their fitness has become a key concern.
Mamelodi Sundowns have continuously sent valuable players to the national squad, and Bafana Bafana frequently benefits from their mutual knowledge and experience. The technical staff may have to reevaluate their preferred combinations if Modiba, Mokoena, and Aubaas are not available.
Mokoena is a crucial player because of his performance in midfield, especially his capacity to pass the ball and offer defensive protection. While Aubaas adds strength and enthusiasm in the middle of the park, Modiba also gives expertise and versatility.
Mosimane will therefore be hopeful that each of the three players recovers enough to be eligible for selection. The coach must, however, refrain from forcing anyone to return until they are fully recovered.
Group D includes Eritrea, Guinea, Kenya, and South Africa. The remaining qualifying matches are crucial for the other teams vying for tournament spots, even though Kenya has already qualified for AFCON 2027 as co-hosts.
Other players may be able to make an impression and solidify their places on the national team as a result of the circumstance. If the Sundowns trio is still unavailable, Mosimane could need to look into other combinations.
Bafana Bafana will be keeping a careful eye on the players' recuperation for the time being, and their availability may have an impact on South Africa's strategy and preparations for the match against Kenya.
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