Bafana Bafana Forced into Late Squad Change for World Cup Qualifiers

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has confirmed that Polokwane City midfielder Ndamulelo Maphangule has been called up to replace the injured Patrick Maswanganyi for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin.

Injury Forces Late Squad Adjustment

Maswanganyi, a key creative force for Orlando Pirates, has been ruled out due to an injury that kept him from featuring in his club’s 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns. Broos expressed frustration over the delayed communication regarding his injury but remains confident in Maphangule’s ability to contribute.

“First choice was (Sinoxolo) Kwayiba from Chippa, but he is also injured on the knee, so therefore we have Maphangule. He’s been performing well with Polokwane, so he deserves this opportunity,” Broos said.

Bafana’s Preparation for Lesotho and Benin

South Africa will host Lesotho on March 21 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium before traveling to Ivory Coast to face Benin on March 25. The team is currently in second place in Group C, level on points with leaders Rwanda.

Meanwhile, Aubrey Modiba has yet to join the squad due to the birth of his child but is expected to arrive later. Despite squad setbacks, Broos remains confident, stating that the newly refurbished Peter Mokaba pitch leaves Bafana with “no excuses” for not getting a positive result.

Group C Standings

1. Rwanda – 7 points
2. South Africa – 7 points
3. Benin – 5 points
4. Lesotho – 5 points
5. Nigeria – 3 points
6. Zimbabwe – 2 points