2026 World Cup: Iqraam Rayners adds fresh edge to South Africa attack – Hugo Broos

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has underlined the importance of Iqraam Rayners’ return to the national setup, describing the striker as a crucial tactical addition ahead of the World Cup campaign.

Broos believes Rayners offers a different attacking profile that complements the existing options of Lyle Foster and Evidence Makgopa, giving South Africa greater flexibility in the final third.

Rayners’ inclusion marks a significant turnaround after he was left out of the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco earlier this year, a decision that raised eyebrows among supporters and analysts alike.

Tactical versatility in attack

Broos made clear that Rayners’ reinstatement is driven by form and functionality within the squad rather than sentiment. The Belgian coach explained how the striker’s return broadens his attacking toolkit and allows for more dynamic in-game adjustments depending on opposition and match situations.

“Rayners was out because of health problems. And then he had some difficulties, but he is scoring again,” Broos told the media during a press conference in Sandton on Thursday.

“You know, Rayners is always able to score. He is a different type. You have Foster, you have Makgopa, who is more of a tall guy. But you also have him [Rayners]. He is fast, he really has a smell for goals. We have opportunities now.

“Depending on our opponent, we will choose either Foster, Makgopa or Rayners. And also during the game, if we have to change something, we will have another type of player available. That’s why I wanted him to be with the team,” said Broos.

The coach’s comments highlight a deliberate shift toward greater attacking adaptability, with Rayners’ pace and instinct in front of goal seen as a key alternative to the more physical presence offered by Foster and Makgopa.

Lessons from Afcon and renewed mentality

Broos also reflected on South Africa’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco, admitting that Rayners’ absence was felt and that broader issues within the camp affected performance levels.

“I already said that at Afcon. It was not really the Bafana team. Mentally, we were not ready. There were a lot of things happening with me after the accusation of racism, and it all influenced our preparations.

“Also, the mentality in the group was not what I was used to seeing. There were players who were not happy because they weren’t playing, and I’d never seen that before.

“But I’m not afraid now, because the boys are motivated and they will make a good World Cup.”

Club success boosts national confidence

Looking ahead, Broos expressed optimism that the strong form of South African clubs in continental football will positively influence the national team environment. A large portion of the squad is drawn from Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, both of whom have enjoyed notable success this season.

“Pirates are league champions now. Sundowns won the Champions League. I was afraid that if they had lost that, I would have to be dealing with disappointed players,” Broos said.