Iqraam Rayners reveals the silver lining of Bafana snub

Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Iqraam Rayners has refused to dwell on his high-profile exclusion from the Bafana Bafana squad, instead choosing to view the international break as a vital opportunity to recharge his batteries for the final Betway Premiership title push.

The 30-year-old’s absence from Hugo Broos’ side for the recent friendly double-header against Panama ignited fierce debate across the football fraternity. Despite being a key figure in the Golden Boot race with 10 goals this season—just two behind leader Junior Dion—Rayners was a surprise omission from the national setup.

Rayners Refuses to Bemoan Broos’ Lack of Faith Amid Snub

While fans and pundits questioned the decision, especially as South Africa struggled for goals against the Central Americans, Rayners has taken a remarkably calm approach. Following a season that included a frightening cardiac scare, the striker welcomed the four-day leave granted by Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso.

“For me, it was a good four days off because we had to spend time with our families,” Rayners told the media at Chloorkop. “When we arrived back, it was a good opportunity for us to be back together and focus on our game on Friday evening.”

The break appears to have served its purpose. Rayners returned to training this week looking sharp and focused on the task at hand: firing Masandawana back to the summit of the table.

Focus Shifts to Chippa United

The Brazilians are currently locked in a titanic battle with Orlando Pirates for the league title. Sundowns currently sit in second place, but a victory against a desperate Chippa United side at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night would see them leapfrog the Buccaneers into a two-point lead.

Rayners is under no illusions about the challenge posed by the “Chilli Boys,” who are fighting for their top-flight survival.

“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 explained.

While the Bafana snub is “water under the bridge” for now, the stakes remain high. If Rayners can maintain his scoring momentum and clinch the Golden Boot, it will be nearly impossible for Broos to ignore him when the 2026 FIFA World Cup selection looms.

For now, however, the mission is simple: one game at a time.

“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,” he concluded.