Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has called up Kaizer Chiefs defender Thabiso Monyane to replace Nyiko Mobbie, who has been ruled out of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria due to injury.
Mobbie was taken off just after five minutes in Bafana’s impressive 3-0 win against neighbours Lesotho in a FIFA World Cup qualifier match at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on Friday evening.
Following the match, Broos confirmed that Mobbie is ruled out for the remainder of the qualifiers. With Bafana now turning their attention to the highly anticipated clash against Nigeria, they’ve called on Monyane to join the camp in Bloemfontein this weekend.
The crucial encounter is set for Tuesday evening at the same venue, and a win will put Bafana in a great position to qualify for the 2026 edition of the global showpiece.
THABISO MONYANE RECEIVES LATE CALL UP TO THE BAFANA BAFANA SQUAD
The 25-year-old Monyane has been in fine form for Amakhosi in the Betway Premiership since his move from rivals Orlando Pirates ahead of the new season. The defender has helped the Soweto giants keep five clean sheets in five league games, with Chiefs winning four and drawing one of those matches.
Monyane will be looking to seize the opportunity and make an impression if he gets a chance to play. Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana team doctor Tshepo Molobi confirmed that Mobbie was taken to the hospital Friday night and underwent an operation this morning.
“The injury happened as a result of a clash of heads in the first half, and he sustained a fracture of the eye socket in three places,” Dr Molobi said, confirming an update would be provided after the operation.
In addition, Dr Molobi also provided an update on Thabo Moloisane, who was forced to leave the match in the 52nd minute due to a head injury.
The Stellenbosch FC defender is reportedly doing well and should be back at training on Saturday afternoon.
Broos’ charges maintained their five-point lead in Group C after Benin beat Zimbabwe 1-0 on the same day to move to second place with 11 points.
RELATED STORY: Hugo Broos confirms injury blow ahead of Nigeria clash