A Kaizer Chiefs star has been called up to join the Bafana Bafana squad in camp ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe.
Bafana take on the Super Eagles in Uyo, northeastern Nigeria on Friday before hosting Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein next week.
Hugo Broos announced his final squad last week, but has had to make a forced change due to injury.
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana has been sidelined due to an unfortunate injury, paving the way for a replacement. This unexpected turn of events has presented an opportunity for Given Msimango to step into a more prominent role within the team.
The extent of Kekana’s injury and the estimated recovery time remain undisclosed at this point. However, he has been ruled out of the upcoming qualifier against Nigeria. In the meantime, Msimango is expected to seamlessly integrate into the defensive line..
GIVEN MSIMANGO JOINS BAFANA BAFANA CAMP
In a brief statement on Monday, Bafana Bafana announced that Msimango has already joined the squad in camp as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
“Bafana Bafana camp in full swing on day 1, with all players present. There is one change to the initial squad announced by Coach Hugo Broos. Due to injury, Grant Kekana has been released and Given Msimango has reported for duty!” read the statement.
Previously, Msimango has been named in the national team preliminary squads. However, he has failed to make it in the final squads.
Therefore, this time around, the 27-year-old is inline to make his debut, but he will face stiff competition for a place in the starting line-up.
In the heart of the Bafana defence, there are other experienced centre-backs in the team like FCSB star Siyabonga Ngezana, Mothobi Mvala of Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates’ Nkosinathi Sibisi.
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