Bafana Bafana: Who could return against Kenya in November?

Pitso Mosimane may have more firepower when Bafana Bafana reunites in November.

In his first games back in charge, injuries heavily impacted selections and rotations.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Evidence Makgopa, and Lyle Foster were among those who missed out.

Here’s who could rejoin the team when the 2027 AFCON qualifiers resume next month.

When is the next 2027 AFCON qualifier?

South Africa are set for two crucial games against the Harambee Stars next month.

Bafana Bafana host Kenya first on 13 November, before the return leg on 17 November.

The SAFA website states that kickoff times and venues for both fixtures are not yet confirmed.

Kenya have already qualified for the main 2027 AFCON as co-hosts, leaving just 1 spot in the group to fight over.

Bafana Bafana are leading the standings with 6 points, ahead of Guinea in second.

While the Harambee Stars have their place already confirmed, they could still trip up the others in the group.

After the November matches, the qualifiers take a long break until the final games in March 2027.

Who could return for Bafana Bafana vs Kenya?

Mbekezeli Mbokazi made a triumphant comeback from a thigh injury on 26 September.

The centre-back played 80 minutes in Chicago Fire’s win over Charlotte FC, including a crucial goal-line clearance.

Meanwhile, Teboho Mokoena was substituted off injured in the 2-1 win against Guinea.

The midfielder was subsequently left out of the 5-0 thrashing of Eritrea and the 1-0 friendly victory over Egypt.

However, a KickOff report suggests he will be fit for Mamelodi Sundowns’ MTN8 final clash against Orlando Pirates this weekend.

Left-back Aubrey Modiba was also missing for the Egypt game in Cairo, but is expected to return to action as early as this weekend.

Mosimane has already stated that he wants to see these players back in the mix for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers in November.

Speaking to the media after the 1-0 win over Egypt, according to FARpost, he said:

“I hope those injured will come back. I saw Mbokazi playing; Teboho [Mokoena] is not bad. He will also come back to play.”

Midfielder Thalente Mbatha and forward Evidence Makgopa are also working towards full fitness.

Per Africa Soccer, Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said both players have returned to full-team training.

Players who could be out long-term

Midfielder Bathusi Aubaas missed the Egypt game after injuring his leg against Eritrea.

Sundowns have kept mum about the extent of his injury, but reports indicate he could be out for a long spell.

Similarly, Khuliso Mudau is out until early next year after rupturing his Achilles tendon in August.

One of the surprise omissions from Mosimane’s first Bafana Bafana squad was Houston Dynamo forward Lyle Foster.

He recently debuted for the MLS franchise, and the belief is that he could miss out for South Africa going forward.

Likewise, Pirates’ Sihle Nduli will undergo a two-week rehabilitation before he even rejoins full-team training.

WHICH BAFANA BAFANA STARS DO YOU WANT TO SEE RETURN AGAINST KENYA?