Evidence Makgopa Called Up to Bafana Bafana After Iqraam Rayners Withdraws
Bafana Bafana have confirmed that Mamelodi Sundowns striker Iqraam Rayners has been released from the national team camp, with Orlando Pirates forward Evidence Makgopa called up as his replacement. The South African Football Association cited “medical reasons” for Rayners’ withdrawal.
Bafana are currently in camp in Johannesburg preparing for two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The squad will face Zimbabwe on Friday, 10 October, at Moses Mabhida Stadium, before hosting Rwanda on Tuesday, 14 October, at Mbombela Stadium.
Coach Hugo Broos had initially named a 23-man squad, with Rayners and Lyle Foster as the primary strikers. Rayners’ absence has opened the door for Makgopa, who had been included in the preliminary 36-man squad. The 25-year-old had a challenging start to the season with limited minutes at Pirates but has regained form, earning this national call-up.
Makgopa becomes the eighth player from Orlando Pirates selected for the squad, joining Nkosinathi Sibisi, Sipho Chaine, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thalente Mbatha, Sipho Mbule, Tshepang Moremi, and Oswin Appollis.
In a separate change, Relebohile Mofokeng was also withdrawn from the squad due to injury. Kaizer Chiefs’ Mduduzi Shabalala has been called up as his replacement.
Bafana will aim to secure vital points in both fixtures as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The inclusion of Makgopa adds fresh attacking options for Broos ahead of these critical matches.
