Bad News for Bafana Bafana! Lebohang Maboe Injury Forces Withdrawal
Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has been dealt an early setback ahead of South Africa’s upcoming international fixtures after midfielder Lebohang Maboe was forced to withdraw from the national team camp due to injury.
The experienced midfielder picked up the injury while representing Kaizer Chiefs over the weekend, bringing an unfortunate end to his latest national team call-up. Maboe had joined the squad in Johannesburg as preparations intensified for the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed that the injury would rule the versatile midfielder out of the current FIFA international window. His withdrawal leaves Mosimane with one less experienced option as he prepares for his first matches in charge of the national team.
Bafana Bafana team doctor Tshepo Molobi explained the nature of the injury, revealing that Maboe suffered an ankle problem while in club action. “He twisted his ankle while playing for Kaizer Chiefs and after undergoing a scan, he will be ruled out from the current camp and this FIFA window,” said Dr Molobi via www.safa.net.
South Africa will open their AFCON 2027 qualifying journey with a home clash against Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00, with supporters expected to turn out in large numbers as Mosimane begins a new chapter with the national team.
Following the Guinea clash, Bafana Bafana will travel to Cairo for their second group encounter against Eritrea at Al-Salam Stadium on 30 September before rounding off the international window with a high-profile friendly against Egypt at Cairo International Stadium on 4 October.
Tickets for the Guinea showdown are available through Ticketpro at R100 for adults and R40 for children under 12, while hospitality packages can be booked through Sail (Contact: 082 805 3150 or bookings@sail.co.za), giving supporters an opportunity to witness the start of a new era for the national team under Mosimane.