Nkota Reflects On Injury Heartbreak And Bafana’s Historic World Cup Run
Al Ettifaq attacker Mohau Nkota has opened up about the injury that sidelined him from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, philosophically noting that setbacks are simply part of the game and emphasizing that time is on his side.
The 21-year-old missed the final three matches of the season for his Saudi Arabian club due to a foot injury, ultimately costing him a spot in South Africa’s World Cup squad.
Nkota, who joined Al Ettifaq from Orlando Pirates at the start of last season, made 22 appearances across all competitions last term, scoring two goals and providing two assists.
His former Pirates teammate and friend, Relebohile Mofokeng, also made a major move recently, joining Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium.
“As a player, you have to go through these stages because injuries are part of football,” Nkota said.
“Unfortunately, this is a difficult time for me. But you just have to be patient and wait for your time. I’m still young; I’m still growing, and there is much more to come. I will be patient.”
Watching Bafana Bafana Make History
Forced to watch from the sidelines, Nkota witnessed Bafana Bafana make history by reaching the World Cup knockout stages for the very first time, before bowing out in a tight 1-0 loss to Canada in the Round of 32.
Hugo Broos’ side defended heroically but were ultimately undone by a stoppage-time winner from Stephen Eustáquio, sending Jesse Marsch’s Canadian team through. It denied South Africa their first-ever extra-time appearance in a FIFA World Cup knockout fixture.
South Africa’s tournament was a rollercoaster:
- The Opener: A tough 2-0 defeat to Mexico in Mexico City.
- The Turning Point: A gritty draw against Czechia in Atlanta to secure their first point.
- The Decider: A thrilling 1-0 victory over South Korea in Monterrey, courtesy of a Thapelo Maseko strike, which punched their ticket to the Round of 32.
“The guys did so much,” said Nkota, whose last appearance for Bafana Bafana came against Zimbabwe during the Africa Cup of Nations group stages in Morocco last December.
“They gave everything, and it was just one of those games. The boys fought for 90 minutes and gave their best. There isn’t much more to say because it wasn’t an easy match. It was tough, especially for a Round of 32 knockout game. They went all out, did their best, and unfortunately, we are out.”
