Injury relief for South Africa as Modiba returns to training

South Africa received a significant boost ahead of their World Cup opener against Mexico as Aubrey Modiba returned to full training, easing concerns over the injury he suffered after scoring a superb free‑kick for Mamelodi Sundowns in continental action. Kaizer Chiefs defender Bradley Cross had been drafted in as cover in case Modiba failed to recover, but the 30‑year‑old now appears on track to start if medical staff clear him to complete the full match.

Bafana Bafana face Mexico in Mexico City on Thursday before Group A fixtures against Czech Republic in Atlanta and South Korea in Monterrey. Modiba’s vast experience—375 club appearances and 47 caps—makes him a crucial option compared to the less seasoned Samukele Kabini and Cross.

Originally a winger identified through the Nedbank Ke Yona programme, Modiba has grown into an attacking full‑back whose forward threat could influence Hugo Broos’ selection as South Africa begin their campaign.