Siyabonga Ngezana Faces Injury Setback Ahead of Bafana’s World Cup Push

Siyabonga Ngezana’s injury during FCSB’s 2-2 draw against CFR Cluj on Sunday has raised concerns for South African coach Hugo Broos ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.

The Bafana Bafana defender was substituted in the 50th minute, with initial reports suggesting a muscle injury. However, FCSB's owner, Gigi Becali, clarified that Ngezana's issue was simply muscular fatigue and not serious.

The 27-year-old has been an essential part of FCSB's defense and was selected the team's best foreign player for the 2023–2024 campaign. However, due to injuries, particularly a pulled muscle sustained during the November AFCON qualifiers, Ngezana has missed many matches for the national squad.

Ngezana's involvement in South Africa's March matches against Lesotho and Benin is still unknown. Despite having a large range of defenders at his disposal, Broos will need to consider his alternatives.

Ngezana's transfer value has soared since his move from Kaizer Chiefs to FCSB in June 2023, with his market value expected to reach €3 million by season’s end, thanks in part to his solid performances in Europe.

He could also feature in FCSB’s upcoming Europa League knockout clash against Manchester United, a major highlight in his career.