Injury forces Broos to make last-minute change ahead of Rwanda clash

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has been forced into a last-minute change for the team’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, handing Stellenbosch FC striker Ashley Cupido a late call-up to replace the injured Lyle Foster.

The Premier League striker, who plays for Burnley, sustained an injury during Friday’s frustrating 0-0 draw with Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

BAFANA BAFANA CAMP UPDATE!

Lyle Foster has been withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana matchday squad due to an injury. After consultation with the medical team, a decision was taken to withdraw him. Ashley Cupido has been called up as his replacement.#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/jj4umgy4RG

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 14, 2025

Foster Fails Fitness Test Amid Injury Woes

Foster missed Monday’s final training session and subsequently failed a late fitness test, forcing his withdrawal just hours before the vital clash at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night.

His injury is yet another significant setback for Broos, who had already lost key attackers Iqraam Rayners and Relebohile Mofokeng to injury ahead of the current qualifiers.

The coaching staff also had to replace suspended centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who received a red card against Zimbabwe. Stellies defender Thabo Moloisane has been called up to fill that gap.

Cupido Returns to the National Setup

Stellenbosch FC also confirmed on their website that Ashley Cupido has been selected as the injury replacement.

“Stellenbosch FC striker Ashley Cupido has received a late call-up to the South African squad ahead of the Tuesday qualifiers against Rwanda after being selected as an injury replacement by coach Hugo Broos,” the club stated.

The 24-year-old Cupido last featured for Bafana in June 2025, where he netted his maiden international goal in a 2-0 friendly win over Mozambique. He currently holds six senior international caps.

The national team faces a stern test, sitting second in Group C and needing a victory against Rwanda to have any chance of automatic qualification for the World Cup. Their fate also hinges on the result between Benin (the current group leaders) and Nigeria.

The match between South Africa and Rwanda is scheduled to kick off at 18:00 on Tuesday, October 14.