Lyle Foster says it is about time Bafana Bafana catch up with the rest of Africa’s best nations if they are serious about the possibility of clinching their second Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title.
In recent years, Bafana has struggled to compete with the top nations on the continent, failing to qualify for major tournaments such as Afcon and the World Cup.
Foster says Bafana playing against top nations like France will only help raise and improve their game.
South Africa will tackle Guinea on Friday and the World champions France next Tuesday.
“I am very excited by our opponents and the prospect of facing top-class opposition. We have to bridge the gap between us and the African powerhouses if we are serious about competing,” said Foster.
“The opportunity to be directly involved in these types of games allows us to learn practically and gauge our progress as a team.”
The former Orlando Pirates hitman is currently on the books of Belgian second division with Westerlo.
“I was very motivated by the way Coach Hugo handled my call up, we spoke about the league I play in, and he showed me that he has been watching me and knows what I can do,” added Foster.
“I’ve been in Europe for a while now, and the difference in quality, competitiveness and professionalism is on another level compared to our local league.
“I want to compete at the highest level for a very long time, and that’s why I’m still in France trying to fight for my place every day. I think we can’t afford to be starstruck by the likes of (Kylian) Mbappe. In fact, we should want to play alongside themselves more regularly,” he concluded.
