South African Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan has welcomed Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s return to full fitness, believing the defender’s availability will give Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane a welcome selection headache ahead of the national team’s upcoming international fixtures.

Mbokazi, popularly known as TLB, has emerged as one of South Africa’s promising defensive talents. However, an injury suffered after returning to Chicago Fire disrupted his progress and forced him to miss Mosimane’s first national team camp in September.

The defender has since recovered and returned to action for his club, providing Bafana Bafana with a timely boost as preparations continue for their upcoming assignments.

Speaking during a media conference at the weekend, Jordaan expressed satisfaction with Mbokazi’s progress and highlighted the depth available to Mosimane in defence.

“We hope that Mbokazi will be fit, and will be back,” Jordaan said, adding that the defender’s return would give the coach a good problem because several quality defenders are competing for places.

During Mbokazi’s absence, Olwethu Makhanya and Ime Okon impressed against Guinea and Eritrea, while Lebone Seema also delivered a promising performance against Egypt. Their displays have strengthened competition for defensive positions, making squad selection increasingly challenging.

Mosimane will now have to consider the players’ fitness, recent performances and tactical suitability before deciding on his preferred defensive combination.

Attention is turning to Bafana Bafana’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya, scheduled for early November. Mosimane is expected to announce his preliminary squad this week, with Mbokazi’s potential inclusion likely to attract considerable interest.

Jordaan also expressed excitement about the national team’s November assignment at Orlando Stadium, emphasising the importance of continued progress.

However, he stressed that Bafana Bafana’s broader ambition remains qualification for the FIFA World Cup.

“Bafana must qualify for the World Cup. Those are the long-term objectives of what we want to achieve,” he added.

Mbokazi’s return could therefore prove significant as Mosimane seeks to build a dependable defence and strengthen South Africa’s competitiveness in upcoming international matches.

Source

https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2112122953718530413