Bafana Bafana Suffer Injury Blow as Maboe Ruled Out of AFCON Qualifier

Bafana Bafana’s preparations for the start of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign have taken an early knock, with Lebohang Maboe withdrawn from camp after suffering an ankle injury.

Coach Pitso Mosimane confirmed on Tuesday that the midfielder has left the Johannesburg camp and will play no part in this FIFA window.

Maboe reported for national duty on Sunday night carrying the injury, picked up while turning out for Kaizer Chiefs over the weekend. Hopes that it might be a minor knock faded quickly once the medical team had a closer look.

“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,” Dr Molobi said.

The decision forced an immediate reshuffle. Mosimane has moved quickly, with a call-up letter for Tshepang Moremi already sent to Orlando Pirates as South Africa look to maintain balance in the squad ahead of a crucial opener.

Upcoming Match

Bafana Bafana host Guinea at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday afternoon as they kick off their road to AFCON 2027. Kick-off is at 15h00, with Mosimane now needing to fine-tune his plans without one of his versatile options.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the qualifier are on sale, including hospitality packages. Prices are set at R100,00 for adults and R40,00 for children under 12.

Supporters have been reminded that at least one adult ticket must be selected before a child’s ticket can be purchased, with kids’ tickets unavailable as standalone purchases.

Hospitality booking information is available via mobile contact on 082 805 3150 or by email at [email protected].

An injury blow, a late call-up, and a packed Orlando Stadium on the horizon — South Africa’s AFCON journey is already asking questions of Mosimane’s depth and adaptability before a ball has even been kicked.