Lyle Foster, Burnley’s forward, has withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana squad ahead of their second 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Congo in Brazzaville. Foster, who scored in South Africa’s dominant 5-0 win over Congo at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, suffered a left knee injury during the match and was replaced by Iqraam Rayners in the 68th minute.

Despite initial concerns, Dr. Tshepo Molobi confirmed that the injury does not require surgery, but Foster will need time for rehabilitation. As a precaution, he did not travel to Brazzaville and returned to Burnley for early recovery. South Africa, who is tied with Uganda at the top of Group K, can secure qualification with a win on Tuesday.