SAFA have issued latest update on injured Bafana Bafana striker Lyle Foster ahead of the return tie against Congo on Tuesday.
The 24-year-old forward sustained an injury in the first clash against the Red Devils on Friday at the Nelson Mandela Bay.
He was taken off with a stretcher after picking up a knock following a collision with the opponents goalkeeper.
While Hugo Broos had expressed hope that the Burnley FC forward would make a return, SAFA have revealed that Foster has been withdrawn from the squad.
He didn't travel with the team on Sunday but instead will return to his club, Burnley in England.
SAFA STATEMENT ON BAFANA BAFANA STRIKER LYLE FOSTER
“Lyle Foster has been withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana team to face Congo Brazzaville in an away 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Stade Alphonse Massamba-Debat de Brazzaville on Tuesday,” said the statement.
“Foster was injured during the first meeting between the two sides at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, a few days ago after a clash with Congo goalkeeper Christopher Mafoumbi. He suffered an injury to his left knee and was subsequently sent to scans for further analysis.
“Dr Tshepo Molobi, the Bafana Bafana doctor, said the injury not as severe as initially thought.
“Fortunately, the nature of the injury does not require surgery. However, time has to be afforded to him for proper rehabilitation and this is why he has been ruled out of the match on Tuesday,” Molobi said.
“As part of the precautionary measures, Foster did not travel with the team to Brazzaville to allow him to rejoin his English club Burnley for early rehabilitation.”