Orlando Pirates player Relebohile Mofokeng is injured after the team’s 1-0 victory over Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout last Saturday.
Due to this injury, the 20-year-old will miss the upcoming matches against Zimbabwe and Rwanda with the Bafana Bafana team.
In his absence, coach Hugo Broos has called up Kaizer Chiefs’ midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala, 21, who has netted one goal in 10 matches.
“This is a significant loss for Bafana Bafana; we really needed him (Mofokeng) for these two games,” Khumalo mentioned on SABC Sport.
Also read: Evidence Makgopa replaces Iqraam Rayners
“He is a key player for the national team. His presence also helps with team bonding, as they’ve been training together. This continuity matters off the field too.
“When he’s on the bench, players in his position know they have to perform well because Rele is ready to step in if needed.
“However, the coach has made it clear that Mdu is the right choice, and we support that,” the former captain of Bafana Bafana added.