Bafana Bafana will be without the services of Burnley striker Lyle Foster when they take on Congo in the return leg of the African Cup of Nations qualifier in Brazzaville on Tuesday.
Foster, one of the goal scorers in Bafana's 5-0 thrashing of the ‘Red Devils’ on Friday, was injured late in the game after a clash with Congo goalkeeper Christopher Mafoumbia.
Bafana coach Hugo Broos had previously stated that he hoped Foster would be able to recover in time for the crucial encounter.
2025 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifer
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Safa confirmed the news via statement on Monday stating Foster had been withdrawn from the squad.
“Lyle Foster has been withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana team to face Congo Brazzaville in an away 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Stade Alphonse Massamba-Debat de Brazzaville on Tuesday,” Safa said.
Bafana Bafana team doctor Tshepo Molobi, said while Foster’s injury does not require surgery, he has to be afforded the time to undergo proper rehabilitation.
“Fortunately, the nature of the injury does not require surgery. However, time has to be afforded to him for proper rehabilitation and this is why he has been ruled out of the match on Tuesday.
“As part of the precautionary measures, Foster did not travel with the team to Brazzaville to allow him to rejoin his English club Burnley for early rehabilitation,”Molobi said.
Bafana are currently second in Group K, with seven points, behind Uganda only on goal difference andcould secure qualification should they emerge victorious against Congo on Tuesday.
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IOL Sport