Malibongwe Khoza's AFCON Hopes Uncertain After Injury Setback - Diski 365

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza faces uncertainty over his Africa Cup of Nations ambitions after picking up an ankle injury in the CAF Champions League first-leg clash against Remo Stars in Nigeria. The 21-year-old limped off after just 22 minutes and was replaced by veteran Grant Kekana. Despite the setback, Khoza has been named in coach Hugo Broos' preliminary squad for South Africa's friendly against Zambia on November 14. Sundowns' medical team is working to get him match-fit, but sources indicate he may not recover in time to make Broos' final squad for the international friendly. Khoza had been part of the Bafana Bafana squad for the last two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda. Although he did not feature on the field, his performances for Sundowns had positioned him as a potential candidate for Broos' Africa Cup of Nations squad in Morocco. Before the injury, Khoza was a key figure in Sundowns' defence alongside Keanu Cupido and was called up to Bafana in the absence of Siyabonga Ngezana. His role in both club and national setups had suggested a breakthrough season, but the ankle issue now puts his AFCON chances in doubt. With the Africa Cup of Nations less than two months away, Khoza will be hoping for a quick recovery to compete for a spot in South Africa's final 23-man squad. Broos is expected to announce the final lineup for the friendly against Zambia next week and will reveal the AFCON squad after the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw in Washington on December 5. Khoza's situation highlights the fine margins for young players vying for major international tournaments, where injuries at the wrong time can alter career trajectories. Sundowns' medical staff and coaching team are working to give him every chance to return before the crucial AFCON preparations.