Bafana Bafana Update: Mbokazi Issue Resolved, Says Helman Mkhalele

Bafana Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele has confirmed that tensions over Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s late arrival at camp have been resolved. The centre-back’s delay had drawn attention ahead of the national team’s Africa Cup of Nations preparations.

Mbokazi reportedly missed his flight from Durban on Tuesday, prompting frustration from head coach Hugo Broos. The coach addressed the media at the High Performance Centre in Pretoria on Wednesday, signaling his displeasure and promising a firm discussion with the 21-year-old defender.

Speaking at the Castle Lager send-off for the national team at FNB Stadium, Mkhalele, also known as the ‘Midnight Express,’ reassured that the matter had been settled. He stressed the importance of resolving such issues promptly to maintain focus on the team’s preparations. “I won’t go to the actual… what you call, each and every point. But I’d say that issue has been resolved because it is important for us to make sure that we resolve issues like that in order to make sure, again, that we continue with our preparations,” he said.

Mkhalele added, “So, the issue of Mbokazi has been settled,” confirming that the player is now fully integrated into the squad ahead of the final friendly match against Ghana.

Bafana Bafana will face Ghana in their last warm-up game before the Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled from 21 December to 18 January. The team aims to use the friendly to fine-tune tactics and ensure all players are ready for the biennial tournament.

The update provides reassurance that internal matters have not disrupted the camp and that focus remains on delivering strong performances in Morocco.