Bafana call up Chiefs defender to replace injured Mobbie

Bafana Bafana have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, with coach Hugo Broos calling up Kaizer Chiefs defender Thabiso Monyane to replace the injured Nyiko Mobbie.

Monyane has impressed in Amakhosi colours in the new season, helping the club keep a total of five clean sheets in five league games. With Monyane at the back, the club has won four games with one draw. He joined Chiefs at the start of the season after parting ways with rivals Orlando Pirates.

Mobbie, who plays for Siwelele FC in the Betway Premiership, was forced off the pitch just five minutes into Friday night’s match against Lesotho at the Free State Stadium.

According to team doctor Tshepo Molobi, the right-back sustained a fractured eye socket in three places and underwent an operation.

“The injury happened as a result of a clash of heads in the first half,” Dr Molobi confirmed. A further update on Mobbie’s condition is expected after his operation.

In better news for the squad, Thabo Moloisane, who also left the field with a head injury, is recovering well and is expected to rejoin training on Saturday.

Bafana secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Lesotho, maintaining their five-point lead at the top of Group C in the qualifiers. The win puts them in a strong position as they now prepare to face Nigeria on Tuesday at the same venue in Bloemfontein.

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