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Hugo Broos, South Africa, October 2025Backpage
Khothatso Leballo

Blow for Bafana Bafana! Hugo Broos forced to replace injured former Orlando Pirates striker ahead of must-win Rwanda showdown in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier

South Africa have been struggling for a prolific scorer who can take them to the global football competition and this problem comes at the most delicate moment. Already, strikers called up by coach Hugo Broos were struggling to score goals at their respective clubs and he now loses some of these men, leaving him to make desperate call-ups.

  • Lyle Foster, Bafana Bafana, August 2025Backpage

    Foster out of Rwanda match

    Lyle Foster has been ruled out of Tuesday's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium. 

    The former Orlando Pirates forward sat out Monday's training session and Bafana coach Hugo Broos has moved in to replace the Burnley man.  

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  • Ashley Cupido, Bafana Bafana, June 2025Backpagepix

    Who replaces Foster?

    "Stellenbosch FC striker Ashley Cupido has received a late call-up to the South Africa squad ahead of Tuesday’s qualifier against Rwanda after being selected as an injury replacement by coach Hugo Broos," Stellenbosch said in a statement.

    "Cupido returns to the camp for the first time since 10 June 2025, when he last featured and scored his maiden goal for Bafana Bafana in a 2-0 friendly win over neighbouring Mozambique."

  • Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Bafana Bafana, October 2025Backpagepix

    Another conundrum for Broos

    This is another injury blow for Broos during this crucial phase of the World Cup qualifiers.  

    The Belgian tactician has already lost Iqraam Rayners and Relebohile Mofokeng, as well as suspended centre-back Mbekezeli Mbhokazi.

    That adds to the likes of Themba Zwane, Grant Keikana and Mothobi Mvala, who have been battling fitness issues.

    Those are key players needed for such a big assignment against Rwanda and the coach will be hoping he will not feel their absence. 

  • Evidence Makgopa, Bafana BafanaGetty

    What comes next?

    Orlando Pirates forward Evidence Makgopa is likely to start Tuesday's match as Bafana face this crisis upfront.

    The latest development comes as South Africa struggled for goals upfront against Zimbabwe last Friday.