Article by Alexandru Tomuțiu – Published Thursday, October 16, 2025, 10:04 p.m. / Updated Thursday, October 16, 2025 10:09 p.m.
Siyabonga Ngezana (28 years old), the central defender of those from FCSBwill leave for the Africa Cup of Nations in December, and the champion team will not be able to rely on him at the end of 2025 either.
Siyabonga Ngezana has a strong chance of being called up to South Africa's national team for the Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held from December 21 to January 18, 2026. Even though he was not in the last action, the FCSB stopper is a constant presence in the 'Bafana Bafana' squad.
Siyabonga Ngezana will miss the derby with Rapid
The FCSB – Rapid derby, the last match of 2026 for both teams will be played on the weekend of December 20-21. It is certain that Gigi Becali's team will not be able to rely on Ngezana in this match.
It remains to be seen when the defender will have to report to the team and if he will miss other games.
South Africa make their final tournament debut on December 22 against Angola. He will also play in the group with Egypt and Zimbabwe.
FCSB, big problems at the level of central defenders
FCSB have very big problems at the level of central defenders. Mihai Popescu suffered a serious injury with the national team and is out for the rest of the season. FCSB have said there is a good chance he won't play for the champions at all, with his contract expiring in the summer.
Ngezana, in FCSB – Young Boys/ photo: Cristi Preda (GSP)
Joyskim Dawa is still in the recovery period and is expected to return to the field after mid-November. Graovac will also miss the next two games of the championship.
Benin will also be participating in the Africa Cup of Nations, meaning David Kiki will also be missing from the champions' squad, should he be called up.
We play with Cercel, who is actually a central defender, and we also solve the U21 problem. We will play with Cercel and Ngezana. Ngezana leaves for the winter (no – Africa Cup). Chiricheș will be replaced by Popescu. Let UEFA put him on the list. UEFA gives permission, FRF does not.
– Gigi Becali
