There was welcome news for Bafana Bafana ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Mexico on Thursday, 11 June, with coach Hugo Broos indicating that defender Aubrey Modiba could be available for selection.
Modiba has been recovering from a hamstring injury sustained at the end of the domestic season and has yet to feature in South Africa’s World Cup preparations.
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The versatile defender missed the recent warm-up matches against Nicaragua and Jamaica while undergoing rehabilitation.
Situation has improved
However, Broos revealed that the situation has improved significantly and that Modiba is expected to rejoin full training on Tuesday.
“I think things are going well with Aubrey and we’ll give him special treatment, so I think from Tuesday he will train with the group,” said Broos.
“If nothing happens in the next few days, Aubrey should be available for the game on Thursday.”
The potential return of Modiba will come as a major boost for Bafana Bafana, who are preparing for a difficult Group A campaign that begins against tournament co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City.
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Satisfied with preparations
Broos also expressed his satisfaction with the team’s preparations in Pachuca, where South Africa have established their base camp ahead of the tournament.
The Belgian mentor explained that altitude played a key role in selecting the Mexican city as the ideal preparation venue.
“Once we knew the draw in December and realised we had to play our opening game against Mexico, I immediately knew we needed a place where we could prepare in relation to the high altitude,” he said.
Broos visited Pachuca in February and was impressed by the facilities available at the city’s renowned football complex.
“I was very happy with the accommodation, with the pitches and with what we found at the University of Football. You have everything you want and need to prepare,” he said.
Praised the hospitality
The coach also praised the hospitality shown to the South African delegation since their arrival.
“The people are very helpful. We can’t ask for anything because before we ask, it’s already there. Again, I’m very happy that we are here,” he added.
Broos believes the team’s preparations in Pachuca could play a significant role in their World Cup campaign.
“If we have good results in the World Cup, it’s certainly because we have had magnificent preparation here in Pachuca.”
Bafana Bafana will open their World Cup campaign against Mexico on Thursday before facing the Czech Republic and South Korea in their remaining Group A fixtures.
Bafana Bafana’s Group A FIFA World Cup 2026 fixtures
- Thursday, 11 June: Mexico vs South Africa, Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 21:00 (SA time)
- Thursday, 18 June: Czech Republic vs South Africa, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 18:00 (SA time)
- Thursday, 25 June: South Africa vs South Korea, Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe – 03:00 (SA time)
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