Pitso Mosimane Set for Major Bafana Boost as Key Stars Race Back for Kenya Clash

Pitso Mosimane could have a stronger squad at his disposal when Bafana Bafana return to action in November, with several injured players working their way back to fitness.

South Africa’s first matches since Mosimane’s return to the national team were affected by injuries, limiting his selection options and forcing changes to his squad.

Among the players who missed out were Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Evidence Makgopa and Lyle Foster, while other key players suffered injuries during the international break.

South Africa Face Kenya in Crucial November Double-Header

Bafana Bafana will resume their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with two matches against Kenya.

South Africa are scheduled to host the Harambee Stars on 13 November before travelling for the return fixture on 17 November. The South African Football Association has yet to confirm the venues and kick-off times for either match.

Kenya have already secured their place at the 2027 AFCON tournament as one of the co-hosts. However, their results in the qualifying group can still influence the battle for the remaining qualification place.

Bafana currently sit at the top of the group with six points, with Guinea occupying second place.

Mbokazi Makes Strong Return From Injury

One of the most encouraging developments for Mosimane has been Mbokazi’s return to competitive action.

The centre-back made his comeback from a thigh injury on 26 September, featuring for 80 minutes in Chicago Fire’s 1-0 MLS victory over Charlotte FC.

Mbokazi also produced an important goal-line clearance during the match, underlining his readiness to return to contention for the national team.

His availability would give Mosimane another defensive option ahead of the decisive November fixtures.

Mokoena and Modiba Could Also Be Available

Teboho Mokoena is another player who could return after missing the final two matches of the recent international break.

The midfielder was forced off during South Africa’s 2-1 victory over Guinea and subsequently sat out the 5-0 win against Eritrea as well as the 1-0 friendly victory over Egypt.

Reports suggest Mokoena could be fit to feature for Mamelodi Sundowns in their MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates, potentially putting him in contention for the November international window.

Aubrey Modiba was also unavailable for the Egypt match in Cairo but is expected to return to action soon.

Mosimane has already indicated that he wants his injured players back for the next AFCON qualifiers.

Following the victory over Egypt, he said he hoped the injured players would recover, specifically noting that he had seen Mbokazi playing and expected Mokoena to return.

Pirates Duo Working Towards Full Fitness

Orlando Pirates players Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa are also making progress in their recovery.

Both players have reportedly returned to full-team training, putting them on course to regain their fitness ahead of the November international break.

Their return could give Mosimane additional options in midfield and attack as South Africa look to strengthen their position at the top of the qualifying group.

Aubaas Faces Uncertainty

Not every injured player is expected to return in time for the Kenya matches.

Bathusi Aubaas suffered a leg injury during the 5-0 victory over Eritrea and subsequently missed the Egypt fixture.

Mamelodi Sundowns have not provided a detailed update on the severity of the injury, but reports suggest the midfielder could face an extended spell on the sidelines.

Mudau Unlikely to Return Soon

Khuliso Mudau is also expected to remain unavailable for some time after suffering a serious Achilles injury in August.

The defender is not expected to return until early next year, ruling him out of the November fixtures and potentially further matches in the AFCON qualifying campaign.

Foster’s Bafana Future Remains Uncertain

Lyle Foster was one of the notable omissions from Mosimane’s first squad since returning as Bafana coach.

The Houston Dynamo forward has since made his debut for the MLS club, but reports suggest his prospects of returning to the South Africa squad remain uncertain.

Mosimane will therefore have several selection decisions to make as he prepares for the November double-header.

Bafana Could Have More Options in November

The potential return of Mbokazi, Mokoena, Modiba, Mbatha and Makgopa would give Mosimane considerably more depth than he had during his opening matches.

However, injuries to Aubaas and Mudau mean the coach is unlikely to have a completely fit squad at his disposal.

With South Africa currently leading their qualifying group, the two matches against Kenya could prove important before the final round of qualifiers resumes in March 2027.