Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo has explained why Relebohile Mofokeng’s injury was a big blow for Bafana Bafana ahead of the final World Cup qualifiers.
Hugo Broos’ men play Zimbabwe and Benin in the coming days as they look to secure a ticket to USA in 2026.
Mofokeng was injured during Orlando Pirates 1-0 win over Siwelele this past weekend. The 20-year-old has to be stretched off in the second half and was later withdrawn from the Bafana squad due to injury.
Khumalo feels Mofokeng’s injury will be a big blow to the squad as he brings a “social factor” to the team.
“I think it’s a big blow for Bafana Bafana, we really needed him for these two games,” he said on Soccerzone.
“Because he’s one of the pillars in the national team. And also, he’s a social factor in the squad, because they’ve been camping together – there is that continuation off the field.”
Mofokeng suffers an injury, withdrawn from Bafana
Mofokeng has played six times for the national team and scored once. Mduduzi Shabalala of Kaizer Chiefs was called as his replacement on Monday.
“But also, when he’s sitting on the bench, the one who’s playing in his position, feels that If I don’t perform, Rele is there to play,” Khumalo added.
“Above that, the coach has alluded to the fact that Mdu is the right choice, and we’ll go with that.”
How serious is Mofokeng’s injury?
The Pirates’ medical team are yet to confirm the extent of Mofokeng’s injury. This season, the 20-year-old has suffered two injuries and hasn’t reached the form which saw him win the Young Player of the Season.
The Buccaneers are back in action in under two weeks in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.