Mamelodi Sundowns striker Iqraam Rayners has pulled out of the Bafana Bafana squad due to medical reasons, dealing a blow to South Africa’s hopes ahead of their final two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches. Orlando Pirates forward Evidence Makgopa has been drafted in as his replacement.
South Africa will face Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban this Friday at 18:00, before taking on Rwanda in Mbombela next Tuesday, also at 18:00, in what will be decisive fixtures in their bid to secure a place at the global showpiece.
Rayners’ absence is a significant setback for head coach Hugo Broos. The 28-year-old has been in red-hot form in the domestic league, currently tied as the top scorer in the Betway Premiership with six goals in 10 matches, alongside Sekhukhune United veteran Bradley Grobler.
On the international stage, Rayners has also impressed since making his debut in March 2024. He has scored four goals in 10 appearances for Bafana Bafana, including one in the 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe earlier this year in Bloemfontein.
Called in as a replacement, Makgopa offers a different skill set to the Bafana frontline. While the 25-year-old has found the net only once in 11 appearances for Orlando Pirates this season, he has contributed three assists and is known for his physical presence and strong work rate.
Makgopa is no stranger to international football, having scored four goals in 18 caps for South Africa. His notable performances include a brace against Ethiopia in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers and a crucial goal against Morocco in the round of 16 at AFCON 2024.
Alongside Makgopa, coach Hugo Broos will also have Burnley striker Lyle Foster at his disposal. Foster has been gradually returning to form in the English Premier League, registering a goal and an assist in seven appearances for the Clarets so far this season.
As Bafana Bafana prepare for two must-win matches, the reshuffled forward line will be tasked with delivering the goals needed to keep South Africa’s World Cup dream alive.
Main Image: Goal.com
