Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos addressed the criticism directed at Lyle Foster after missing two great chances against Zimbabwe.
SA and The Warriors played to a 0-0 draw in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday.
Despite finding it difficult to break down the Zimbabwean defence, Foster had two clear-cut chances but was denied by Divine Lunga on the goalline and the post.
Broos felt the Burnley forward was slightly unlucky in the game, but he stressed that the player remains a key player for South Africa.
“I think Lyle has become a very important player for us, you have to admit that,” said Broos in the press conference on Monday.
“He was a little bit unlucky on Friday, when you see his previous games, he’s scored goals.
“He had a very big chance on the line, they saved it. But he is a very important player.”
He added that Mbokazi is also one of the players who have quickly become an important part of the national team. Despite his absence in the upcoming clash against Rwanda, he remain confident those who are available will do the job.
“Mbokazi has become also a very important player, but he won’t be here tomorrow,” he added.
“We have to be confident on the players that are there. Let’s see what happens tomorrow. But again, I’m not a coach who’s doubting now what could happen tomorrow and the quality players and also players that are not there.”
Bafana take on Amavubi on Tuesday, 14 October at Mbombela Stadium with kickoff set for 6 pm.