Motale confident Bafana can still qualify

THE absence of Mbekezeli Mbokazi for the crucial final Fifa World Cup 2026 qualifying clash against Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium (6pm kickoff) has handed coach Hugo Broos a fresh defensive headache.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

The Orlando Pirates defender will miss the match after receiving a red card in the dying moments of Bafana Bafana’s goalless draw against Zimbabwe on Friday evening at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

South Africa's hopes of qualifying for the tournament, which is set to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, are hanging in the balance after being in control for most of the early parts of their qualifying campaign.

Mbokazi had been one of the standout performers for the national team in recent outings, and his absence adds to Broos’ growing list of unavailable centre-backs at a stage where South Africa cannot afford any defensive lapses.

To fill the gap, Stellenbosch FC’s Thabo Moloisane has been called up to the squad. Moloisane featured in the 3-0 win over Lesotho last month and could be reinstated to the starting eleven.