With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers coming up in March, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos must be concerned over some of his regulars who have been out with injuries.
The biggest concerns will no doubt be the players at Mamelodi Sundowns. Both Mothobi Mvala and Khuliso Mudau have been out and there's no telling exactly when they will be back on the pitch.
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Mvala, though, recently told media that he expects to be back in action soon, but it will be interesting to see if he can get straight back into the starting line-up, especially with new defender Lucas Suarez having a good start. Mvala last featured for Sundowns in November last year, as a substitute in a Betway Premiership match against Sekhukhune United.
Mudau last featured on January 21, missing the last four matches Sundowns have played. This will no doubt be a concern for Broos, who has been relying on the two players for some time now.
Grant Kekana, however, is expected to return to the national team after being left out of the last squad in the final two 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Orlando Pirates defender Thabiso Sesane, who was called up to the squad last year, is not an option for Broos, as he is expected to be out for some time.
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Sesane's Pirates teammate, midfielder Thalente Mbatha, recently picked up a knock, but is believed to be fit again to play.
Themba Zwane is back training with his Sundowns teammates after picking up an injury last year, but it's unclear when he will be fully back in the matchday squad to compete.
Broos is expected to announce his preliminary squad by the end of this month.
