Bafana Bafana have been dealt a blow ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying fixtures, with in-form striker Iqraam Rayners ruled out due to injury.
In response, head coach Hugo Broos has called up Orlando Pirates forward Evidence Makgopa to fill the void for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers with Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
Read: Hugo Broos remains confident Bafana Bafana will qualify for the World Cup
Rayners has been a standout performer for Mamelodi Sundowns this season, scoring nine goals in just 12 appearances across all competitions.
His clinical finishing and sharp movement have made him a vital asset for both club and country, where he has netted four times in 13 caps.
Makgopa, while not enjoying the same output club level—scoring only once in 11 outings for Pirates this season—brings valuable international experience.
The 23-year-old has featured 18 times for Bafana Bafana, contributing four goals, and is known for his physical presence and aerial ability.
This is the second enforced change to Broos’ squad, following the earlier withdrawal of Relebohile Mofokeng due to injury. Mofokeng was replaced by Kaizer Chiefs youngster Mduduzi Shabalala, who continues to impress with his flair and creativity.
A Bafana statement read: “Iqraam Rayners has been withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana camp due to medical reasons.
“He was released back to his club this morning. Evidence Makgopa has been called up as his replacement.”
Bafana take on Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday before hosting Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday.