Snubbed Bafana Bafana striker Iqraam Rayners has opted against bemoaning coach Hugo Broos’ lack of faith in him and welcomed the time off he got during the FIFA international break.
The exclusion of Rayners from the national team squad for the recent back-to-back international friendly matches against Panama became a major talking point about Broos’ selection. The Mamelodi Sundowns striker is chasing the Betway Premiership Golden Boot and is currently second on the chart with 10 goals, two behind leading scorer Junior Dion.
Despite his scoring exploits in the league, Rayners has struggled to charm Broos. In what could be a show of character and quality, he remains in the Golden Boot race even after spending time on the sidelines at Sundowns after a cardiac scare earlier in the season.
Broos’ decision on the former Stellenbosch FC star has sparked some fierce debate. The 30-year-old striker risks missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Interestingly, Bafana had some serious attacking frailties in Rayners’ absence against Panama.
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Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso gave his players four days off during the FIFA break, and his players are expected to return with fresh legs. That could have Rayners back with some recharged batteries as he continues his quest to be the league’s top scorer.
“For me, it was a good four days off because we had to spend time with our families,” Rayners said at Chloorkop on Tuesday. “When we arrived back, it was a good opportunity for us to be back together and focus on our game on Friday evening.”
“The preparations are going on well, especially when you have been off for four days and come back on the first day, the coach tells you what is on his mind.
“The day we left for the four-day break, he told us that we will have to play a game on Friday, so the guys know what to do and what they are up to. So, it’s all about focusing on the next game and do our best.”
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Masandawana are preparing to host relegation-threatened Chippa United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday. Victory will lift the Brazilians from second spot to two points clear at the top. But a draw or a loss will see Orlando Pirates remain as leaders.
“It’s always going to be a difficult one because teams at the bottom—since we are coming to the end of the season—are always fighting for their jobs, fighting for their lives, and fighting for their families,” Rayners added.
“So, it is not going to be an easy game, but for us, it’s also about keeping the momentum and winning games. We take it one game at a time; that’s the most important thing.”
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