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# Bafana Bafana Face Selection Dilemma After Mokoena Injury South Africa will have to make a key adjustment for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eritrea after Teboho Mokoena was ruled out through injury. The midfielder has become an important part of Bafana Bafana’s setup, offering energy in both directions and providing an additional threat from midfield. His absence therefore leaves Pitso Mosimane with an important decision to make. There is no direct replacement for Mokoena in the current squad, with Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha also unavailable because of injury. Kaizer Chiefs player Lebo Maboe has likewise withdrawn from the camp. **Aubaas the Most Likely Option** Bathusi Aubaas appears to be one of the strongest candidates to step into the midfield. The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder brings physical strength and defensive discipline, although his playing style is somewhat similar to that of Sphephelo Sithole. If Mosimane selects both players, Sithole could potentially be given greater freedom to move forward while Aubaas provides additional protection in the middle of the pitch. Aubaas has already featured as a substitute during this international window, coming on against Guinea as South Africa looked to protect their advantage. **Could Poggenpoel Get the Chance?** Brooklyn Poggenpoel is another possibility, although starting him in an AFCON qualifier would represent a greater gamble. The Durban City midfielder has enjoyed a positive spell and offers more mobility than Aubaas, but he does not provide the same physical presence. With Mosimane generally favouring experience and caution, Poggenpoel may be more likely to provide an option from the bench rather than immediately replace Mokoena in the starting XI. **Mosimane Has a Decision to Make** Mokoena’s injury means Mosimane must find the right balance between maintaining midfield control and giving South Africa enough attacking quality. Against an Eritrea side ranked outside the world’s top 100, Bafana will be expected to take the initiative. The coach must therefore decide whether to strengthen the midfield with Aubaas or take a more adventurous approach. Whoever gets the nod will have an important responsibility: helping Bafana maintain their momentum while ensuring Mokoena’s absence does not disrupt their AFCON qualifying campaign.