Mohau Nkota sends message of hope after missing Bafana Bafana's World Cup run

The 21-year-old missed the final three matches of the season for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittifaq after suffering a foot injury, a setback that ultimately ruled him out of Hugo Broos' World Cup squad.

Nkota completed his move from Orlando Pirates to Al-Ittifaq ahead of the 2025/26 season and enjoyed a promising debut campaign in Saudi Arabia. He made 22 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing two assists before his progress was halted by injury.

Despite the disappointment of missing football's biggest tournament, Nkota believes injuries are part of every player's journey and is confident that his opportunity to shine on the international stage will come.

"As a player, you have to go through these stages because injuries are part of football," Nkota told Sportswire.

"Unfortunately, this is a difficult time for me. But you just have to be patient and wait for your time. I'm still young; I'm still growing, and there is much more to come. I will be patient."

Forced to watch from the sidelines, Nkota saw Bafana Bafana make history by reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time before their campaign ended with a narrow 1-0 defeat to co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32.

Reflecting on the team's exit, the winger praised his teammates for their determination.

"The guys did so much. They gave everything, and it was just one of those games. The boys fought for 90 minutes and gave their best. It wasn't an easy match, but they left everything on the pitch. Unfortunately, we are out," he concluded

While nursing his injury, it remains unclear on when the winger will be back in action for Ittifaq with the Saudi Pro League set to resume in the second week of August.