Manqoba Mngqithi, head coach of Golden Arrows, has expressed strong support for Iqraam Rayners as a key striker for Bafana Bafana ahead of the upcoming World Cup in June. Mngqithi believes Rayners stands out as the best option for the national team given the specific challenges they will face.
Speaking on the Up Back Through Podcast, Mngqithi highlighted Rayners’ unique abilities, stating, “In my opinion, a striker like Iqraam Rayners is still amongst the best for the type of a national team and the personality that I think we need to have.” He emphasized the importance of having a forward who can exploit space, a strategy that was evident during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Despite competition from Lyle Foster and Evidence Makgopa for a forward position in Hugo Broos’ squad, Mngqithi noted that the national team coach has typically leaned towards Foster and Makgopa. He explained that while using Foster’s strengths as a box striker is essential, Rayners offers a different advantage when matched against formidable opponents.
“When we play Lyle Foster, we must not work opposite his strengths because his strength, he’s a box striker,” Mngqithi elaborated. He suggested that having Rayners could enhance their chances against stronger teams, providing a tactical edge for the national team.