Bafana Bafana lose Lebo Mothiba for AFCON 2023

Bafana Bafana striker Lebo Mothiba has been ruled out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

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The 27-year-old Strasbourg frontman was named in coach Hugo Broos’ 50-player preliminary squad for the upcoming AFCON to be held in the Ivory Coast early next year.

But he has since undergone surgery for a fractured patella after suffering an injury in his side’s 2-1 win against Lorient last Sunday.

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Lebo Mothiba’s French club Strasbourg posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Lebo Mothiba suffered a fractured patella in Sunday’s win against Lorient.

“After successfully undergoing surgery this morning, our striker will be unavailable for a period of several months.

“A smile for Lebo – we’re all wishing you a safe and speedy recovery.”

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Mothiba has played 15 times this season under new head coach Patrick Vieira, scoring three goals.