Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana Dealt Major Blow as Key Defender Faces Lengthy Absence
Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana are potentially facing a major setback, as a key player’s injury could be worse than initially believed, ruling him out of action for the next month.
Chiefs’ Injury Concerns Ahead of Cape Town City Clash
Amakhosi are set to face Cape Town City in a Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Wednesday (19:30). However, it has been confirmed that Happy Mashiane, Samkelo Zwane, and Tashreeq Morris are all ruled out due to injury.
Adding to coach Nasreddine Nabi’s concerns, sources close to The Village suggest that defender Rushwin Dortley will be out for at least a month due to an injury requiring an operation.
The knee ‘discomfort’ initially appeared to be a minor issue, but fresh reports indicate that a knee operation has been recommended as a precautionary measure.
Dortley’s Impact and Defensive Dilemma for Chiefs
Dortley has been a key figure in his first season at Chiefs, playing 21 matches and establishing himself as the first-choice left centre-back. His absence presents a fresh headache for Nabi, especially after the club sold another left-footed centre-back, Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, in mid-February.
The 22-year-old has been instrumental for both club and country, playing every match of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers and maintaining an unbroken presence in the national team since his debut in September last year.
Bafana Bafana Also Hit Hard
Dortley’s injury is a significant blow for Bafana Bafana, as he will be unavailable for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho on 21 March and Benin on 25 March.
His meteoric rise since emerging at Cape Town Spurs last season has made him a vital asset for Hugo Broos’ squad. Now, the national team must find a replacement in their defensive setup.
Who Will Step Up in Dortley’s Absence?
In Dortley’s absence, Chiefs are likely to turn to Given Msimango, who has partnered Inacio Miguel in the last two matches.
Meanwhile, Edmilson Dove’s return will provide some much-needed depth in defence, while Zitha Kwinika’s future at the club remains uncertain amid reported exit links.
Chiefs now face a crucial period where defensive adjustments will be key as they navigate their upcoming fixtures without one of their top defenders.
