Bafana face fresh injury blow as Mvala races against time

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mothobi Mvala’s participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) is in serious doubt due to a groin injury.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos revealed that they are waiting for a medical report on the severity of Mvala’s injury before making a decision on his inclusion in the squad for the Ivory Coast.

“The biggest problem for us is Mothobi, he has a groin injury,” said Broos.

“We will wait for the medical report. We are not sure he will go with us to Ivory Coast. We can’t take him if he can’t train for the next 10 days. In that case, it will be better to take someone else.”

Broos has already included Tapelo Xoki as one of the three standby players in the squad, and the Orlando Pirates defender may be called up if Mvala fails to respond to treatment.

However, the coach expressed his hope that Mvala’s injury is not severe and that he will be available for the opening match against Mali.

“I really hope it is not so bad and with a few days’ rest, I can count on him for our opening match against Mali next Tuesday,” said Broos.

Losing Mvala would be a blow for the team, as the midfielder has been an important player for Mamelodi Sundowns and has shown his capabilities on the international stage as well.

His absence would require the team to make adjustments and potentially call upon other players to step up.

The medical report will play a crucial role in determining Mvala’s fate, and the team will be hoping for positive news.

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