Bafana Bafana supporters took to social media to criticise striker Lyle Foster after he missed a crucial penalty in Friday night’s goalless draw against Nicaragua.
The Burnley forward had a golden opportunity to give South Africa the lead just before halftime, but his effort crashed against the crossbar, leaving the home crowd frustrated.
Bafana struggled to break down Nicaragua‘s stubborn defence throughout the match, and Foster’s missed spot-kick proved to be one of the game’s defining moments.
The penalty was awarded after Kamogelo Sebelebele was brought down inside the box shortly before the halftime whistle. Captain Themba Zwane initially appeared ready to take the kick but ultimately handed the responsibility to Foster.
The striker failed to convert, drawing loud boos from sections of the crowd at Orlando Amstel Arena.
Bafana head coach Hugo Broos decided not to bring Foster back for the second half as South Africa searched for a breakthrough.
Supporters did not hold back in their criticism on social media.
@WonderMahlobo wrote: “Lyle Foster is still playing for Bafana Bafana and remains our main striker because he plays in England. Our fraudulent coach believes anyone playing outside South Africa is a good player.”
Bafana fans boo Lyle Foster
@SbuMasang questioned the decision to allow Foster to take the penalty, posting: “Mshishi was holding the ball. How did Foster end up kicking it?”
Meanwhile, @KB_Ramasimong wrote: “Lyle Foster is not making life any easier for himself. Why did he go there to fetch the ball when the crowd was already heavily on his back? As soon as he took the ball, the crowd was agitated.”
Another supporter, @Gretchen_Ndou, called for a change up front, writing: “Can Hugo Broos please give Rayners a chance in the second half? Foster is offering absolutely nothing right now.”
The draw leaves Broos with plenty to think about ahead of Bafana Bafana’s upcoming international assignments, with Foster’s performance likely to remain a major talking point among supporters.
