Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba has been withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, Sportswire has learned.

Modiba has been pulled out due to his partner having given birth. The experienced left-back has been replaced by Vuyo Letlapa of Sekhukhune United. This change comes after Modiba played the full match in Sundowns’ loss to Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Sunday.

The versatile Modiba, who can also operate in midfield, was among several players who struggled with the slippery conditions of the FNB Stadium turf. This contributed to Orlando Pirates’ quick goals scored by Relebohile Mofekeng.

The 21-year-old Letlapa has made 18 appearances across all competitions for Sekhukhune United, providing two assists.

Modiba is the second Bafana Bafana player to be pulled from the squad. Polokwane City midfielder Rodney Maphangule replaced Orlando Pirates’ Patrick Maswanganyi on Monday.

Bafana Bafana currently sit second in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, tied with group leaders Rwanda on seven points after four matches. They will host Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday before traveling to a neutral venue in Ivory Coast to face Benin four days later.

Only the group winners will automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. The four best-placed runners-up will have a second chance through the play-offs.