CAPE TOWN – Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has drafted in Thabiso Monyane as a replacement for Nyiko Mobbie, who was forced off the field just five minutes into Friday night’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho at the Free State Stadium.
The Kaizer Chiefs defender is set to join the Bafana camp in Bloemfontein this weekend, as South Africa shifts focus to their second 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, scheduled for Tuesday night at the same venue.
Broos side claimed a convincing 3-0 victory over Lesotho on Friday night, strengthening their grip at the top of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying group.
South Africa remain five points clear at the summit of Group C, after Benin edged Zimbabwe 1-0 on the same day to climb into second place with 11 points.
Team doctor Tshepo Molobi confirmed that Mobbie was rushed to hospital on Friday night and had to undergo 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,” said Dr Molobi.
He added that Thabo Moloisane, who was forced off in the 52nd minute with an injury, is recovering well and is expected to return to training on Saturday afternoon.
Image: @BafanaBafana/Twitter.
