Bafana Bafana striker Lyle Foster has called for the team to immediately move past their disappointing result against Zimbabwe, stressing that their fate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers is still within reach as they prepare to host Rwanda in a critical final match.
“The past is the past now, it’s done, it’s dusted and we can only move forward,” Foster stated, signaling a clear shift in focus for the squad.
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Qualification Dreams Hang on a Thread
South Africa heads into the finale following a frustrating goalless draw against ten-man Zimbabwe last Friday. That result significantly complicated the qualification picture, meaning Bafana Bafana must win and rely on a favourable result from the simultaneous Group C clash between Nigeria and Benin.
Squad Remains Positive Despite Setbacks
Reflecting on the missed opportunity against Zimbabwe, where efforts by both Foster and teammate Mohau Nkota struck the woodwork, Foster acknowledged the disappointment but maintained a positive outlook within the camp.
“Obviously it wasn’t the result that we wanted,” the Burnley striker said. Nevertheless, he quickly added, “I think the mood in the camp is still very good… I think we know it’s still far from over.”
Foster emphasized the singular importance of the upcoming fixture: “A very big game and I think we get a result there and a lot of things worked for us so I think it’s just about focusing on the next one.”
The home team will be without suspended defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi who has been replaced by Stellenbosch’s Thabo Moloisane due to receiving a late red card against Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile the Rwandan side have no injury or suspension concerns but will be playing for pride after losing in the final minutes of their clash at home against Group C leaders Benin on Friday.
The high-stakes encounter against Rwanda is scheduled for Tuesday evening at 18:00 at the Mbombela Stadium.