South African defender Siyabonga Ngezana has moved closer to returning to competitive football after resuming training with Romanian club FCSB following several months on the sidelines due to a knee injury.

The 29-year-old centre-back has been unavailable since undergoing surgery in June and has yet to make an appearance for his club this season. His return to training represents an encouraging development for FCSB and the defender as he works towards regaining his fitness.

Ngezana sustained the injury during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He initially postponed surgery in the hope of remaining available for selection for Bafana Bafana’s World Cup squad. However, he eventually missed out on selection and had to concentrate on recovering from the injury.

His absence has affected his involvement at club level, with the defender missing 11 matches for FCSB this season. Although returning to training is a significant step, he still needs time to rebuild his fitness before being considered ready for competitive action.

Ngezana joined FCSB from Kaizer Chiefs three years ago and has since made 106 appearances for the Romanian side. His experience abroad has helped him establish himself as one of the South African defenders competing in European football.

However, returning to full fitness will be only part of the challenge if he hopes to regain his place in the national team. Ngezana has earned 14 international caps, but competition for central defensive positions has increased.

Bafana Bafana have several defensive options available, including Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khulumani Ndamane, Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema. Other players, such as Thabo Moloisane, Malibongwe Khoza and Tylon Smith, are also hoping to attract the attention of the national team selectors.

Ngezana will therefore need to demonstrate his quality through consistent performances once he returns to action. A successful recovery and regular appearances for FCSB could strengthen his chances of earning another international opportunity.

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana are preparing for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Kenya. South Africa are scheduled to host the first leg at Orlando Stadium on Friday, 13 November, before travelling to Nairobi for the return fixture on Tuesday, 17 November.

For now, Ngezana’s priority remains completing his recovery and returning to competitive football. His progress will be closely watched by supporters hoping to see him back in action for both club and country.

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