Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has confirmed a significant setback for his camp, revealing that Themba Zwane will be out for months.

This news means that Zwane, who reached his 50th cap when Bafana hammered Congo 5-0 last Friday, will miss crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan next month.

Zwane, known for his ability to hold the ball and break the lines, was forced off in the 40th minute of Bafana Bafana’s 1-1 draw against Congo away on Tuesday. The team’s performance noticeably declined after his departure, as they needed a win to secure their place in the upcoming AFCON tournament in Morocco.

“Themba Zwane is very important player for us,” said Broos after the game. 

“It was not good for us that Themba had to go out with an injury, and it is a big injury, its Achilles tendon. I am afraid he will be out for months. So, again, when you lose such an important player, it’s difficult certainly in the game where you are dominated. 

“Because Themba is someone who can keep the ball, who can give the last pass, and he was not there. Maybe that was also why we didn’t play so well.”  

Despite the draw, Bafana Bafana’s qualification hopes remain intact. They currently sit second in Group K, two points behind leaders Uganda. A win against either Uganda or South Sudan will secure their place in the AFCON.

When asked if the draw had complicated their qualification chances, Broos dismissed the notion, stating, “We still need a victory. If we win against Uganda or South Sudan, we will qualify.”

Bafana Bafana’s recent performance at the AFCON finals in Ivory Coast, where they claimed the bronze medal for the first time in 24 years, serves as a reminder of their potential.