Burnley Forward Lyle Foster Reveals Ambitious Plan to Obliterate Benni McCarthy's Bafana Bafana Record

Bafana Bafana striker Lyle Foster has openly declared his ambition to surpass the long-standing all-time goal-scoring record for South Africa, currently held by current Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy.

McCarthy, widely regarded as one of the nation's greatest players, scored 31 goals in 79 international appearances between 1997 and 2012. This record has remained untouched for over a decade.

However, Foster, who currently plays for Burnley in the English Premier League, believes he has a genuine chance to break it. With nine goals in 31 caps for the national team, the 25-year-old is well on his way and hopes to continue his impressive form under coach Hugo Broos.

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

While expressing deep admiration for the former Bafana Bafana star, Foster admitted the record is on his mind.

"Benni is the GOAT… lots of love for him," Foster told iDiski Times. "I can’t lie to you and say I don’t think of it. It’s not something I go into every game thinking about, but if it happens, it happens."

The forward is determined to cement his own legacy among the greats of South African football by achieving major milestones with the national team.

"I have started really well, thank God for that. And God willing, if it happens, it happens," he stated, acknowledging his strong start to his international career.

Foster reiterated his desire to achieve greatness while maintaining respect for the record holder.

"I won’t sit here and say that it’s not something I don’t want to achieve. Everyone wants to achieve things," he explained. "I have so much respect for Benni, but I’d like to follow in his footsteps as well."

Foster will have an opportunity to add to his goal tally in Bafana Bafana's upcoming friendly against Zambia. He is also expected to be a key player for Hugo Broos's squad as they prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament he will be eager to participate in after missing the 2023 edition to focus on his mental health.