Bafana Bafana striker Lyle Foster goes through his paces at training as legend Itumeleng Khune rallies support for the number 9.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/Independent Media
Former Bafana Bafana captain and goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has rallied behind striker Lyle Foster, urging the forward to remain confident despite growing criticism ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Foster has been under scrutiny from sections of supporters following a penalty miss against Nicaragua in Bafana’s previous friendly, adding pressure as the squad moves into the final phase of preparation for the tournament.
The spotlight now shifts firmly to Friday’s final warm-up match against Jamaica, which will serve as Hugo Broos’ last opportunity to fine-tune his squad before the World Cup opener against Mexico.
The fixture is expected to provide a more physical and structured test, with Broos focusing on attacking combinations, pressing triggers and defensive transitions under match pressure.
Khune, one of the most experienced voices in South African football, believes Foster’s broader contributions outweigh isolated setbacks and insists the striker’s role in the national team remains vital.
“All I can say to Lyle is for him to keep doing what he’s been doing because he’s been banging in important goals for us.”
He also defended the striker’s reliability from the spot, downplaying concerns around the missed penalty and urging perspective from supporters and analysts alike.
“I think this was the second penalty I’ve ever seen him miss but he’s been our national team penalty taker and scoring so you can’t be a bad player after one game.”
With pressure mounting in a World Cup year, Khune emphasised the importance of emotional support within the squad environment, pointing to senior figures who can help Foster regain confidence.
“He mustn’t drop his head, even the likes of Themba Zwane and Ronwen Williams will probably help him in regaining his confidence and continue to score goals for the national team.”
Inside the Bafana camp, there is a growing emphasis on mental recovery as much as tactical preparation, with staff aware that attacking players often carry the burden of expectation in tournament football.
Foster’s movement, pressing ability and link-up play continue to be valued within Hugo Broos’ system, despite external criticism.
The Jamaica fixture is expected to be a full tactical rehearsal, with Broos looking to finalise attacking combinations, defensive balance and set-piece structure before the tournament begins.
While competition for places remains intense, Foster is still expected to be part of the coach’s plans heading into the World Cup.
Bafana Bafana’s preparations have now reached their final stage, with Jamaica providing a physical and structured test before the step up in intensity against Mexico in the opening group match.
For Khune, the message is simple: one moment does not define a striker — and belief within the camp could be the difference on football’s biggest stage.