Al-Ettifaq FC winger Mohau Nkota has opened up about the injury that ruled him out of the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nkota played a key role during the World Cup qualifiers, helping Bafana Bafana secure a place at the global showpiece for the first time in 16 years.
The 21-year-old, who had established himself as a regular in Hugo Broos’ squad, was forced to undergo surgery to address the injury, bringing an abrupt end to his World Cup dream.
Nkota admitted it was difficult to come to terms with missing the tournament, but said he had to accept that his ambitions had been put on hold because of the injury, adding that setbacks are part of football.
He also expressed confidence that, at just 21 years old, he still has plenty of time to represent South Africa at major international tournaments in the future.
“As a soccer player, you have to pass these stages,” said Nkota.
“Injuries are a part of football, unfortunately, they strike mostly at difficult times.
“You just have to be patient and wait for your time. As for me, I’m still young. I’m growing up. There’s still more to come. I’ll be patient and I’ll play [another World Cup].”
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