Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has moved swiftly to reinforce his squad ahead of Tuesday’s crunch World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, calling up Kaizer Chiefs right-back Thabiso Monyane to replace the injured Nyiko Mobbie.
Mobbie’s night ended abruptly on Friday when he was forced off just five minutes into South Africa’s 3–0 victory over Lesotho at the Free State Stadium. The Sekhukhune United defender suffered a heavy clash of heads and was immediately taken for medical attention.
Team doctor Tshepo Molobi confirmed on Saturday that the 29-year-old underwent surgery after sustaining a triple fracture to his eye socket.
“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,” Molobi explained, adding that further updates will follow as Mobbie continues his recovery.
While Mobbie begins his rehabilitation, Bafana received some positive news regarding Thabo Moloisane, who limped off in the 52nd minute of the Lesotho clash. Molobi assured that the defender is recovering well and is expected back in training on Saturday afternoon.
Friday’s emphatic 3–0 victory – courtesy of goals from Mohau Nkota, Lyle Foster and Oswin Appollis – ensured South Africa maintained their grip on top spot in Group C, moving to 16 points. Broos’ men remain five points clear after Benin edged Zimbabwe 1–0 to climb into second place with 11 points.
Monyane is set to join the Bafana camp in Bloemfontein this weekend, as preparations intensify for the highly anticipated encounter against Nigeria on Tuesday night at the Free State Stadium.
With qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup firmly within their grasp, Broos and his team know that momentum – and depth – will be crucial in the decisive stages of the campaign.
