Zwane’s Goalkeeping Dilemma: Johnson’s World Cup Aspirations Shattered as Usuthu Confronts Depth Issues

Johnson will miss the final five matches of the season, posing a significant challenge for Usuthu and for Johnson, who was keen on securing a position in the Bafana Bafana World Cup lineup.

The former Cape Town Spurs goalkeeper, who joined Usuthu from Chippa United at the start of the season, sustained the injury during a defeat to Casric Stars in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals at Moses Mabhida Stadium last month.

He suffered the injury in a clash with Mfundo Thikazi shortly after the latter had scored, an unfortunate incident.

Since the injury, the 29-year-old has missed five matches, during which Usuthu has recorded two victories, one defeat, and two draws.

“Unfortunately, Darren will be out for an extended period,” Zwane stated during a media session on Wednesday.

“He is projected to be inactive for as long as six months.”

With Johnson—who has played in 20 matches across all competitions and kept six clean sheets—now unavailable, Usuthu will look to Olwethu Mzimela and Richard Ofori for support in the upcoming matches.

Both goalkeepers have taken charge since Johnson’s knee injury, with Mzimela holding the position during the recent match against Orlando Pirates.

“I believe we are likely the only team that has had to rotate all of their goalkeepers this season, highlighting how thin we are in that area,” Zwane noted.

“If anything were to happen to Olwethu, our only option would be Ofori, leaving us without an experienced backup. We may need to depend on the DDC goalkeepers.”

“The concern is whether they are prepared to step up at this level if called upon.

“This underscores the necessity of planning as we approach the transfer window. Such unforeseen circumstances occur, but it’s vital not to dwell on them; we must concentrate on seeking solutions for the future.”

“Let’s focus on solutions and move forward. That’s the essence of football.”