…South Africa to bank on Lyle Foster for goals
South African striker Lyle Foster remains confident that Bafana Bafana can still secure the Group C ticket for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the mounting pressure from Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Benin’s Cheetahs.
South Africa’s qualification hopes suffered a major setback after they were held to a goalless draw against 10-man Zimbabwe. The Warriors went a man down in the 63rd minute when Knowledge Musona was sent off, but Bafana failed to capitalize. To compound matters, defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi was also dismissed deep into stoppage time, in the 97th minute.
The result leaves South Africa second in Group C with 15 points, two behind leaders Benin (17 points). Nigeria, meanwhile, still have an outside chance of qualifying if they can beat the Cheetahs by two goals or more in their final match.
Foster, who was among the players criticized for missing key chances against Zimbabwe, including one effort that was cleared off the line, believes the team can still turn things around.
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To qualify, Bafana Bafana must defeat Rwanda in Mbombela and hope for a favorable result in Uyo, where Nigeria face Benin. A Nigerian victory would leave both the Super Eagles and the Cheetahs on 17 points, while a win for South Africa would take them to 18 and secure the group’s lone ticket to the World Cup.
Despite the uncertainty, Foster insists morale in the camp remains high.
“The mood in the camp is still good and we know it’s far from over. We play on Tuesday, and if we get the result there and other things work for us, we’ll qualify,” the Burnley forward said.
“It’s just about focusing on the next one. The past is the past — it’s time to move forward.”
Foster also urged supporters to keep believing in the team as they prepare for their decisive clash with Rwanda.
“There’s no reason to feel despondent. There’s still so much to play for. The support we’ve had has been great, and we just ask for the same in Mbombela. This is the most important game, so we’re asking our supporters to come out in numbers.”
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