Bafana Bafana to start AFCON qualifying campaign without key players

Bafana Bafana will start their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign next month without some of their key players.

At least eight players could be unavailable for Bafana’s opening match against Guinea.

South Africa will host Guinea on the 23rd of September 2026, Mamelodi Sundowns right back Khuliso Mudau was the last Bafana Bafana to suffer an injury.

Mudau has been ruled out of action for six months after suffering a serious Achilles injury against Marumo Gallants on Wednesday.

The 31-year old Mudau joins defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa and Bradley Cross on the sidelines.

Mbokazi who has a severe thigh muscle tear will be out of action for the rest of this year.

Bafana Bafana open their account against Guinea on the 23rd of September, before playing Eritrea in an away match four days later.