Egypt vs South Africa: Another Bafana Bafana Star Ruled Out of Next Match, Pitso Mosimane Reacts
- Bathusi Aubaas became the third central midfielder to pick up an injury in the current Bafana Bafana camp
- Mosimane spoke directly about Aubaas after Bafana Bafana's 5-0 win over Eritrea at Al Salam Stadium in Cairo
- The injuries have raised concerns ahead of Sunday's friendly international against Egypt
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Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has moved to reassure Bathusi Aubaas that the door to the national team remains open, after the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was forced off the field with an injury during South Africa's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eritrea.
The setback is a particularly painful one for Aubaas, who also missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup through injury. Mosimane confirmed that the player was visibly distressed after leaving the pitch, breaking down in tears in the dressing room.
**Another Cruel Blow for Aubaas**
"Aubaas is one unfortunate player. He missed the World Cup because of injury and he was ready to come on and to play. Again, (he) broke down. Shame, he was crying in the dressing room, but we are there to support him and give him confidence. He is a very good football player. It was his chance to play again because he missed the World Cup. He will soon be back in the national team. We have patience with him," Mosimane told the media after the match.
Aubaas's withdrawal added to a growing injury concern in the Bafana Bafana midfield, with Lebohang Maboe and Teboho Mokoena having already picked up knocks during the camp. The loss of three central midfielders ahead of Sunday's friendly against Egypt leaves Mosimane with limited options in that position.
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**Poggenpoel Offers Cause for Optimism**
Despite the injury disruptions, Bafana Bafana produced a commanding performance, defeating Eritrea 5-0 at Al Salam Stadium in Cairo. The result secured Mosimane's side maximum points from their opening two AFCON qualifier fixtures, placing them at the top of Group D with six points.
Brooklyn Poggenpoel, who came on to replace Aubaas, impressed after entering the fray and may give Mosimane a credible option in midfield when Bafana Bafana face Egypt in a friendly international on Sunday.
Source: Briefly News
