Bafana Bafana’s striking options have undergone a late change ahead of
their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Orlando Pirates striker
Evidence Makgopa has been called up to replace Mamelodi Sundowns forward
Iqraam Rayners, who has withdrawn from the squad for medical reasons.
The South African national team is currently in camp preparing for their
final two Group C matches against Zimbabwe and Rwanda. Rayners took part in
Monday’s training session at Dobsonville Stadium but has since returned to
his club.
This is the second attacking alteration for coach Hugo Broos. Over the
weekend, the exciting Orlando Pirates youngster Relebohile Mofokeng was
forced to pull out due to an injury sustained in the Carling Knockout. His
place was taken by Kaizer Chiefs’ Mduduzi Shabalala.
In more positive news for Bafana, the squad is set to be bolstered by the
arrivals of Lyle Foster and Sphephelo Sithole. The European-based duo were
absent from Monday’s session as they travelled to join the camp.
