Confirmed team news: Defender who 'never disappointed' Hugo Broos ruled out of Nigeria clash

South Africa defender Nyiko Sydney Mobbie has been ruled out of Tuesday's 2026 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria Free State Stadium.

The 30-year-old fullback, a key figure under coach Hugo Broos since his appointment in 2021, picked up an injury during Bafana Bafana’s 3-0 victory over Lesotho on Friday.

He was forced off in the sixth minute and replaced by Mdunyelwa Zuko. After the match, Broos confirmed Mobbie will not be available for the clash with the Super Eagles.

The Belgian coach has often praised the SuperSport United defender, previously calling him his most reliable player and noting in 2022 that Mobbie had 'never disappointed' whenever called upon.

"Nyiko Mobbie has never disappointed me. Never, except against France [a friendly game Bafana lost 5-0 in March] and this was not only his fault," Broos was quoted as saying by Timeslive.

Since making his debut in August 2019, Mobbie has earned 27 caps for Bafana Bafana, and his absence will be a major blow ahead of the showdown with Nigeria.

Coach Hugo Broos will now be tasked with finding a capable replacement to keep the Super Eagles’ attack in check as South Africa aim to edge closer to securing their World Cup spot.

The victory over Lesotho moved Bafana Bafana to the top of the group with 16 points, nine clear of Nigeria, and a win on Tuesday could guarantee their qualification for the tournament.

Adeyemi Adewale

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