Getty Images
The stage is set for Morocco to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and South African Lyle Foster's ambitions are clear and unwavering. The Burnley striker has spoken openly about the lofty goal he and his Bafana Bafana teammates have set for themselves as they prepare for the continental clash.
Advertising
Drawn into a highly competitive Group B, South Africa will take on familiar foes in Egypt, record seven-time champions seeking revenge for a painful 1-0 knockout in the round of 16 inflicted by a Thembinkosi Lorch goal when they hosted the tournament in 2017. Adding to the regional intrigue, their group also includes perennial COSAFA rivals Zimbabwe and Angola.
These ambitions are boosted by their impressive bronze medal win at the last AFCON Championships in Ivory Coast. Now, with their only national title a distant memory in 1996 (a feat achieved before Foster was born), the team is looking to end a long-standing drought and write a new chapter in history.
Foster, who will be competing in the tournament for the first time, left no doubt about the team's intentions. “Yes, 100 percent [Bafana want to make history]. That's why we're here now. It’s amazing that the guys finished third at the last tournament.” He stated this in an interview with SuperSport TV.
He elaborated on the clear path the team had charted for themselves, acknowledging that their previous success now set a higher standard. “Now we will try our best to go and improve this one, the one we did last time. The only way to improve on this is to reach the final.”
Advertising
Although Foster is focused on the penultimate stage, his faith in the team is palpable. “Once we get to the final, we'll see what happens. We hope to go all the way this time and yes, I strongly believe in the squad and the players we have and that's what's important.”
For the 25-year-old personally, the tournament represents an important milestone, combining the weight of national history with the excitement of a personal debut. “I'm really excited to go there. 1996 is a long time, so yeah, I'm excited. It'll be my first year personally. It'll be tough, no doubt, but I'm looking forward to it.”
