Broos On Rayners’ Omission: I Will Not Drop Makgopa
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has admitted it was a difficult decision to leave out in-form Mamelodi Sundowns striker Iqraam Rayners.
Rayners, who was named in the preliminary Bafana Bafana squad, was ultimately omitted when Broos announced his final selection on Thursday for two FIFA-sanctioned international friendlies against Panama later this month.
The decision comes despite Rayners’ impressive form in the Betway Premiership, where he currently sits second on the scoring charts with 10 goals—just two behind leading scorer Junior Dion.
Broos explained that he currently prefers Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa and Burnley FC forward Lyle Foster, citing their consistency and contributions at international level.
According to Broos, Foster has a strong scoring record whenever he represents the national team, while Makgopa’s work rate remains a key factor in his selection.
Makgopa notably scored in South Africa’s 2-1 defeat to Cameroon in the round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations and was also on target when Bafana Bafana secured a 3-0 victory over Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At the time, Foster was unavailable due to injury, despite having scored twice during the AFCON finals. Broos has since welcomed back Bongokuhle Hlongwane of Minnesota United FC as part of his squad options.
“He has just performed well, and we are talking about consistency,” said Broos.
“Most of the strikers are similar, but I think Lyle Foster scores in almost every game he plays for the national team. Evidence Makgopa is the same, even if he is not playing regularly for Orlando Pirates at the moment.
“He will come back, no problem. Two years ago, people were asking why I selected him, but you saw what he did at AFCON. He scored against Cameroon and always works hard. I won’t drop him unless I see someone clearly better.”
Bafana Bafana will face Panama in two upcoming friendlies at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 27 March and DHL Stadium on 31 March.
These matches will serve as South Africa’s final preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico—leaving omitted players like Rayners with a significant challenge to force their way back into contention.
