Bafana Bafana has been dealt a massive blow ahead of their two crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan.

The Bafana captain and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, has been ruled out of the two games with a shoulder injury.

Williams underwent surgery last month and there were hopes that he would be ready to play.

Hugo Broos. Picture: Morgan Piek

However, the Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, confirmed that Williams was not ready and was omitted from the 23-man squad.

“It is a big loss, not only as our goalkeeper but also as captain,” said Broos.

“From the beginning, when we had to choose a captain, Helman Mkhalele told me, ‘Maybe Ronwen’. I did not know Ronwen, but we felt it was the right choice.

“We wanted him to be there, he was operated on in July and could not be ready.

“So, we will look for solutions and I have full confidence in the goalkeepers who are there and we will see who will play.”

Next Friday, Bafana will face Uganda at the Orlando Stadium, and this match in Soweto will kick off at 18:00.

Bafana Bafana squad:

Goalkeepers – Ricardo Goss, Veli Mothwa, Sipho Chaine

Defenders – Sydney Mobbie, Thapelo Morena, Aubrey Modiba, Khuliso Mudau, Grant Kekana, Rushwin Dortley, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Fawaaz Basadien, Siyabonga Ngezana

Midfielders – Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Sphephelo Sithole, Thalente Mbatha

Forwards – Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, Elias Mokwana, Lyle Foster

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg