Injured Nkota backs Bafana Bafana to reach FIFA World Cup knockout stage

Injured Nkota backs Bafana Bafana to reach FIFA World Cup knockout stage

The 21-year-old had to watch the opening match defeat from the sidelines after sustaining an injury in training with his Saudi Pro League side that tore his meniscus, ruling him out of participation in the global showpiece.

South Africa now have to get a positive result in their next fixture against the Czech on Thursday in order to keep their hopes of progressing to the next round alive. 

"The gents must keep pushing and focus on the next two games," said Nkota to the media.

"The next two games [Czech Republic and South Korea] are a must-win, and I believe we can still qualify for the knockout stages of this World Cup."

Nkota, who has nine caps for the national team, scoring twice and creating three assists, also opened up on his injury and his ambitions for the future after missing out on the tournament in North America.

"I got injured before the league ended and I had to chin up and accept that," explained the former Orlando Pirates star.

"Mine now is to focus on my injury in order to get back to full fitness. I will wait for another World Cup because I am still young and there's still more to come from me. I will be patient."

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