Kagisho Dikgacoi has backed Burnley FC striker Lyle Foster to turn the corner and deliver goals on the global stage as Bafana Bafana hold their breath ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Mexico.
The Burnley FC striker missed a penalty during a 0-0 friendly draw against Nicaragua at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto last month. Foster struck the post from the spot just before half-time with the goalkeeper at his mercy, prompting boos from the frustrated crowd. It turned out to be a disappointing send-off for Hugo Broos’ men, with fans expecting a commanding display before the team departed for North America.
However, Broos’ side wrapped up their global showpiece preparations on Saturday with a 1-1 draw against Jamaica at the Estadio Hidalgo in Pachuca. Foster was on the scoresheet—a crucial strike that will do wonders for his confidence ahead of the tournament.
The forward has struggled for form since the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, enduring a tough club campaign with Burnley as they were relegated from the English Premier League, where he managed just three goals in 26 appearances.
Bafana Bafana, returning to the global showpiece after a 16-year absence, face co-hosts Mexico on 11 June in the highly anticipated tournament opener at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. They will then take on the Czech Republic and South Korea in their remaining Group A fixtures.
‘HOPEFULLY LYLE FOSTER WILL TURN UP THINGS’ – KAGISHO DIKGACOI
Speaking to FARPost, Dikgacoi noted that South Africa’s primary concern lies in the striking department, which is spearheaded by Foster, Iqraam Rayners, and Evidence Makgopa.
“Just the striking department — we create a lot of chances. We just need to improve our finishing because we haven’t been converting,” he said.
However, he believes Foster will rise from the ashes like a phoenix and help the team, saying his confidence levels can never be affected by missing one penalty. Foster has scored ten goals in 27 appearances for Bafana Bafana.
“He is well experienced, and he is playing in one of the biggest leagues, and I know he understands how to come out of situations like this. He is still vital in our squad, and he’s still got a lot to offer. Hopefully, he’ll turn up and do things very well,” Dikgacoi told FARPost.
“Whoever isn’t starting but is part of the team has been selected based on merit — what they have been doing for their mother club and what they can offer when the coach needs to make changes. I don’t think there will be much experimentation from the coach [at the world cup].”
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