Kaizer Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley is set for a spell on the sidelines after undergoing knee surgery.
The centre-back sustained the injury during a league match at the beginning of the month, forcing him out of action for an unspecified period.
Dortley has already missed key fixtures for the Soweto giants, including matches against Magesi, Stellenbosch, and Cape Town City.
His absence will extend to international duty as well, dealing a blow to South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
The 22-year-old will be unavailable for the crucial upcoming qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, both set to take place in Polokwane.
Additionally, he will miss next week’s high-profile clash against Ivory Coast.
Kaizer Chiefs have yet to confirm a definitive timeline for Dortley’s recovery, with medical staff monitoring his progress post-surgery.
“The surgery was deemed essential to ensure a full recovery and reports indicate it went smoothly. Amakhosi’s medical team is optimistic about Dortley’s prognosis,” the club stated.
“While the timeline for his return remains uncertain, there is hope he will be back on the field donning the iconic gold and black colours in the not-too-distant future.”