Aubrey Modiba Withdraws from Bafana Bafana Squad
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba has withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin. Modiba’s decision comes after the birth of his partner’s child, and he will be replaced by Vuyo Letlapa from Sekhukhune United.
Modiba’s withdrawal is the second change to the Bafana Bafana squad, following the replacement of Orlando Pirates’ Patrick Maswanganyi with Polokwane City midfielder Rodney Maphangule. The squad is preparing for crucial matches against Lesotho and Benin, with only the group winners automatically qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.
Vuyo Letlapa: The Replacement
Vuyo Letlapa, 21, has been called up to replace Modiba in the Bafana Bafana squad. Letlapa has made 18 appearances for Sekhukhune United across various competitions, contributing two assists. The young left-back will be eager to make a positive impression on the national team coaching staff and fans alike.
Bafana Bafana’s Road to the FIFA World Cup
Bafana Bafana is currently in second place in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, tied with group leaders Rwanda at seven points after four matches. The team will face Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday before heading to a neutral venue in Ivory Coast to compete against Benin four days later.
Only the winners of the group will automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup, while the four best-placed runners-up will have an additional opportunity through play-offs. Bafana Bafana will be looking to secure maximum points from their upcoming matches to stay in contention for a spot at the FIFA World Cup.
The Importance of Team Preparation
The withdrawal of Aubrey Modiba and the replacement by Vuyo Letlapa highlights the importance of team preparation and adaptability.
The Bafana Bafana coaching staff will need to ensure that the team is well-prepared for the upcoming matches, despite the changes to the squad.
Effective communication and cooperation between the coaching staff, players, and support staff will be crucial in ensuring that the team is able to adapt to the changes and perform at their best.
With the right mindset and preparation, Bafana Bafana can overcome the challenges ahead and secure their spot at the FIFA World Cup.
The Road Ahead
Bafana Bafana’s upcoming matches against Lesotho and Benin will be crucial in determining their fate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The team will need to be focused, determined, and well-prepared to secure maximum points from these matches.
With the right mindset and preparation, Bafana Bafana can overcome the challenges ahead and secure their spot at the FIFA World Cup. The team’s success will depend on their ability to adapt to the changes, work together as a unit, and perform at their best.