AFCON 2025: How Far Is Lyle Foster from Benni McCarthy's Scoring Record?

Burnley forward Lyle Foster is steadily ascending South Africa's all-time top goal-scorers list, with his recent form at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco bringing him closer to the top ten of Bafana Bafana’s historic scoring charts.

After missing the previous Africa Cup of Nations, Lyle Foster has been instrumental for Bafana Bafana, showcasing his talent and composure on the continental stage.

He scored the decisive goal in South Africa’s 2-1 opening victory over Angola and followed it up with a crucial strike in a thrilling 3-2 win against Zimbabwe, a result that confirmed South Africa’s place in the round of 16.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

This tournament marks Lyle Foster’s AFCON debut, though he first earned his senior national team call-up in October 2020, following South Africa’s failure to qualify for the 2021 edition.

Lyle Foster’s impressive scoring rate, 10 goals in just 23 appearances, has sparked discussion about the possibility of him challenging Benni McCarthy’s long-standing record of 31 goals, a feat that has remained a benchmark in South African football for over two decades.

Currently, the Burnley striker is just two goals away from breaking into the top ten all-time scorers. Tokelo Rantie and Siphiwe Tshabalala are tied for ninth and tenth with 12 goals each, highlighting how close Foster is to etching his name among South Africa’s elite goal-scorers.

Lyle Foster is not the only active player making waves for Bafana Bafana. Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena has contributed nine goals from his 53 caps, consistently proving his value in the midfield.

Additionally, Orlando Pirates attacker Oswin Appollis has impressed since his debut in November 2023, scoring seven goals, including two at the ongoing AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco.

Despite Lyle Foster’s rise, the top five of South Africa’s all-time scoring chart remains a prestigious list, featuring legendary names.

Shaun Bartlett – 28 goals

Katlego Mphela – 23 goals

Bernard Parker – 23 goals

Phil Masinga – 19 goals

As Lyle Foster continues to find the back of the net for Bafana Bafana, it is becoming increasingly likely that he could one day join these legends among the nation’s most prolific scorers, cementing his place in South African football history.