Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has offered an encouraging update on the injury of national team right back Khuliso Mudau.
After a tense group stage performance that saw Bafana secure their place in the AFCON knockout stages, South African fans held their breath as star defender Khuliso Mudau limped off the field against Tunisia.
Mudau had to be replaced by Nyiko Mobbie at halftime in the goalless draw against the Carthage Eagles on Wednesday. The result saw Bafana sail through to the Last 16 after their convincing 4-0 against Namibia. Their other result was a 2-0 loss to Mali in the opening Group E game.
Despite earlier concerns, Broos provided a ray of hope on Friday concerning the injury of Mamelodi Sundowns defender Khuliso Mudau.
Bafana are gearing up for their Last 16 encounter against FIFA World Cup semi-finalists Morocco on Tuesday in San Pedro.
“The big problem was Khuliso,” Broos acknowledged in a virtual press conference. “When I saw him after the game trying to walk, I had many doubts for the game of Tuesday.”
HUGO BROOS’ OPTIMISTIC ON KHULISO MUDAU
Mudau’s visible discomfort raised concerns about his availability for Bafana’s crucial last-16 clash against Morocco.
However, Broos quickly highlighted the ongoing medical efforts to support Mudau’s recovery. “Breakfast the day after, he could walk very normally because of the good treatment. And the treatment he has now three times a day from our medical staff,” he explained.
The dedication of the medical team, combined with Mudau’s resilience, seems to be paying off. “Already this morning, I didn’t see so much problems anymore. It means that the injury is progressing in a good way.”
This positive development has injected a dose of optimism into the Bafana camp. “I’m optimistic that for Tuesday, Khuliso will be available for the team,” Broos declared.
The 28-year-old defender started all three group matches for Bafana at the ongoing AFCON 2023 in Ivory Coast.
While it’s still too early to definitively confirm Mudau’s playing status for the Morocco match, Broos’ update provides some hope. Should he return to the field, his defensive prowess and attacking contribution will be invaluable assets for Bafana as they navigate the knockout stages and chase AFCON glory.
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