AmaZulu FC goalkeeper Darren Johnson has been ruled out of contention for Bafana Bafana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a long-term injury.
The 29-year-old shot-stopper had been pushing for a place in Hugo Broos’ squad following a string of impressive performances for Usuthu this season. However, his hopes have now been dashed after being sidelined for up to six months.
AmaZulu head coach Arthur Zwane confirmed the extent of the setback.
“Darren unfortunately is going to be out for some time,” said Zwane. “He is going to be out for probably six months, at most.”
Johnson, who joined AmaZulu at the start of the campaign, quickly established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper. He made 21 appearances across all competitions and kept nine clean sheets, playing a key role in the team’s defensive stability.
His absence has now opened the door for Olwethu Mzimela to step up between the posts, with Richard Ofori also part of the goalkeeping options.
Zwane admitted that injuries in the goalkeeping department have been a major challenge for the club this season.
“We’re probably the only team that has used all its goalkeepers this season,” he said.
“Should anything happen to Olwethu, we have Ofori, but then we would have no backup. We would have to rely on the DDC goalkeepers. The question is, are they ready for top-flight football?
“These are unforeseen circumstances. You don’t complain — you have to carry on and find solutions.”
Despite conceding three goals in their recent clash against Orlando Pirates, Mzimela produced a solid performance, making several key saves to prevent a heavier defeat.
Johnson’s injury comes as a significant blow both for AmaZulu and his international ambitions, just as he was building momentum for a potential national team call-up.
With Johnson out of contention, it leaves Pirates’ Sipho Chaine, Kaizer Chiefs’ Brandon Petersen and Siwelele FC’s Ricardo Goss to fight for the two spots alongside Ronwen Williams.