Foster concedes 'it hurts' leaving Burnley for AFCON, but...

South Africa international Lyle Foster has admitted it will not be easy to leave Burnley in critical Premier League campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to be played in Morocco from December 21 to January 18.

Bafana Bafana are among the 24 teams that qualified for the biennial competition. Having missed the last edition due to mental health, the pacy attacker is expected to be an integral part of coach Hugo Broos' team.

He concedes it will not be easy, but has insisted he has to be patriotic and ensure he puts his best foot forward for the country.

Hurts to leave the squad

Lyle Foster in action for Burnley against Wolves. Photo Imago

“The toughest thing about AFCON is pausing our season [in the Premier League] and go there,” Foster told SuperSport.

“But at the same time, it’s your country, it is what it is. But it does hurt a little leaving the squad because you want to be there throughout the season, helping the team.

“And especially during the December, that’s were most important games come, the schedule is heavy. So, it’s the nice time to be here.

“But yeah, I have to go to AFCON and focus on that. But like so said, I’m excited for AFCON and to come back,” the striker added.

Bafana want to win AFCON

South Africa claimed a bronze in the 2023 edition, but Foster is determined to go all the way along with the squad.

Jayden Adams Lyle Foster and Elias Mokwana Bafana Bafana — Image – Bafana

“Yes, 100 per cent [Bafana want to make history]. That’s why we are here now. Amazing from the guys to finish third at the last one,” the 25-year-old continued.

“Now, we are going to try by all means to go and better this one, the one we did the last time. The only way we can better that is to reach the final.

“Once we reach the final, we will see what happens. We are hoping to go all the way this time, and yes, I strongly believe in the squad and the players that we have, and that’s what is important.

“I’m excited to be going out there. 1996 is a long time, so yes, I’m excited. Personally, it will be my first one. No doubt it will be tough, but I’m looking forward to it,” Foster concluded.