Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has revealed that Bathusi Aubaas was left in tears after suffering another injury setback during Wednesday evening’s 5-0 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying victory over Eritrea.
Aubaas was handed a starting opportunity at the start of the second half after recovering from injury, but his return lasted just 12 minutes before he was forced off.
The midfielder has endured a difficult period after missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup through injury, and Mosimane admitted that the latest setback was particularly painful for the 29-year-old.
“Aubaas is one unfortunate player, he missed the World Cup because of injury, and he was ready to come on to play, again, broke down – ya shame man, he was crying in the dressing room, but we’re here to support him,” Mosimane said.
The Bafana coach stressed that the squad will continue to support Aubaas as he begins another recovery process, while insisting that the midfielder remains an important part of his plans.
“We’re here to give him the confidence, he’s a very good football player and it was his chance to play again because he missed the World Cup you know?” he added.
“But he will soon be back in the national team, we have patience for him.”
Aubaas’ latest injury adds to Mosimane’s concerns in midfield, with Teboho Mokoena also currently sidelined.
“Teboho is out with injury, Aubaas is out with injury, so we’re losing players in midfield,” Mosimane said.
Despite the setback, Bafana produced a dominant performance against Eritrea to secure a 5-0 victory and continue their strong start to the qualifying campaign.
For Aubaas, however, the focus now turns back to recovery as he faces another frustrating spell on the sidelines.