As head coach Pitso Mosimane gets Bafana Bafana ready to face Kenya in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Mbekezeli Mbokazi is making a triumphant return to the lineup.

South Africa, who will play the Harambee Stars in a November qualifying match over two legs, might get a lift from the defender's possible comeback. Due to a thigh injury that sidelined him for a few weeks, Mbokazi was unable to participate in the last international window.

Mosimane now has another option to consider when deciding on defensive combinations for the crucial matches, as the centre-back from Chicago Fire has returned to professional football.

Among South Africa's most impressive players in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mbokazi was an integral cog in the team's success. People started to take notice when Mosimane didn't include him in his first roster, especially when he was assembling his squad for the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.

Upon his return to club activity, Mbokazi is reportedly anticipated to be ready for consideration for the November fixtures. The national team's preparation for the doubleheader against Kenya would depend heavily on his match sharpness and fitness level.

In the first match, South Africa will host Kenya on November 13. The second match, in the return match, will be played on November 17 in Nairobi. These games are an important element of Bafana Bafana's quest to earn a spot in the continental championship.

Several defenders who have recently been included to the squad provide Mosimane with alternatives at center back, including Olwethu Makhanya, Ime Okon, and others. With Mbokazi back in the lineup, the coach would have more options when choosing starting lineups and more players vying for spots.

Having the defender included to the preliminary squad does not, however, ensure that he will be named to the final roster. Before making a final decision, the coach will have to evaluate his availability and physical condition.

South Africa has a tough set of matches against Kenya, so any news of Mbokazi's return to the national team would be excellent news to Bafana fans.

Source: https://x.com/soccerbeatza/status/2113695059354738735?s=46