McCarthy tips Orlando Pirates product to break his record

Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy is convinced Houston Dynamo FC striker and Orlando Pirates product Lyle Foster can break his all-time national team record.

The Kenya coach holds the record for most goals scored for Bafana Bafana. During his active days, McCarthy scored 31 goals, an achievement that has not been matched by any player.

Former Pirates striker Foster has scored 10 goals so far, but the 49-year-old believes the on-loan Burnley striker can go all the way.

Foster is finding his footing again

“Well, listen, it’s not just in South Africa, it’s a worldwide thing because when you look at modern-day football, now most teams play inverted wingers,” McCarthy said in a presser.

“But listen, Lyle [Foster], he’s finding his footing again. He’s top-notch. I said this a long time ago. I think if there’s a player that’s got the characteristics, that’s got the quality, that’s going to take my name off the record books there, it could be Lyle because he’s got the ability, and he’s got the aura.

“But he needs the service, he needs the team to play for him, you know? And Iqraam Rayners as well. You’ve got to play to the strengths of the strikers that you have; when you don’t play to the strength of your strikers, it becomes difficult for them to score goals,” he concluded.

Why Mosimane hugged Foster

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has explained why he hugged Foster after his assist for Relebohile Mofokeng.

“He showed me that he’s not here for himself. Normally, he would not pass that ball back. So he shows that he wants to play for the team and he shows that he’s not selfish, and that’s the embrace. I appreciate that,” he told the media.

“Well-taken goal [by Mofokeng], world-class finish. I celebrated with Rele a lot. But more to Lyle, to say, ‘You really show that you want to play for the country.’”

South Africa will be away to Kenya on Tuesday hoping to get their third win in four Group D games.