Bafana Bafana hit by another injury blow ahead of Rwanda clash
Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has been forced into another late change, replacing injured striker Lyle Foster with Ashley Cupido of Stellenbosch FC ahead of South Africa’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda.
Foster, who plays for Burnley in the English Premier League, was ruled out after sustaining an injury during the goalless draw with Zimbabwe on Friday in Durban. He missed Monday’s training session and failed a final fitness test under the supervision of the team’s medical staff.
His withdrawal adds to South Africa’s growing injury list, with Iqraam Rayners and Relebohile Mofokeng already sidelined. Broos also had to replace Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who is suspended following a red card, with Thabo Moloisane—another Stellenbosch player.
Stellenbosch FC confirmed Cupido’s selection, noting that the 24-year-old forward returns to the national setup for the first time since June 2025, when he scored his maiden goal for South Africa in a 2–0 win over Mozambique.
Cupido joins a Bafana side currently sitting second in Group C, needing a win against Rwanda and hoping Nigeria defeat Benin to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.
The crucial encounter kicks off at 18:00 CAT tonight at Mbombela Stadium.