{
  "id": 10938771,
  "title": "Eritrea v Bafana – Three players to watch",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/30/eritrea-v-bafana-three-players-to-watch",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-30T12:22:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/eritrea-bafana-three-players-watch/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As Bafana prepares for their Africa Cup of Nations Group D qualifier against Eritrea in Cairo, certain players from Sundowns are set to make an impact. Aubrey Modiba and Teboho Mokoena are out injured, presenting opportunities for other team members to step up. One player who could make a difference is Samukele Kabini Kabini, who came on as a substitute against Guinea and scored the winning goal for Bafana. The Molde FC left back, only 22 years old, could start against Eritrea or replace the more experienced Fawaaz Basadien. Another player to watch is Bathusi Aubaas Mokoena, who would fill in for his Sundowns teammate Aubaas in midfield. While Aubaas has only played five times for Sundowns this season, his experience could be invaluable for Pitso Mosimane's men. Lastly, Oswin Appollis, Bafana's best attacking player under Hugo Broos, will need to prove himself again after criticism following their recent Guinea match. A strong performance against Eritrea, including a goal, would be a good start for Appollis.",
  "summary": "Phakaaathi takes a look at three players who could make an impact in another important qualifier for Pitso Mosimane's men.",
  "key_points": [
    "Samukele Kabini Kabini, 22, could start or replace Fawaaz Basadien",
    "Bathusi Aubaas Mokoena, experienced midfielder, could fill in for Aubaas",
    "Oswin Appollis, criticized recently, needs strong performance against Eritrea"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}