‘Lyle Foster Is Low on Confidence, but We Will Fix Him’ – South Africa Coach Hugo Broos

Foster was already under strain, having attracted criticism from fans for missed chances in the March fixtures against Panama, and the penalty miss will have done nothing to improve that.

But there are mitigating factors, according to Broos, who is likely to deploy Foster as his main striker at the World Cup, with Evidence Makgopa and Iqraam Rayners being the other two players in the squad capable of filling that role.

"You need to bear in mind that Lyle did not play in three of Burnley’s last four matches after they changed the coach," Broos said.

"He was not even on the bench any more. I think Lyle needs a bit of confidence from us, and also a slightly better physical condition. A good Lyle is quick and lively.

"We did not see much of that Lyle in the first half (against Nicaragua). But that is not why we substituted him. It was always the plan before the game for Lyle to play the first half and for Iqraam to come on in the second half."

Foster has scored 10 goals in 31 caps for Bafana Bafana, but has netted only once in his last six appearances.

"Lyle, at present, does not have much confidence. He is doubting himself a little. So we need to work on that in the coming days and train to ensure he is at the level he was a few months ago," Broos said.

"These things occur. You change coaches and suddenly you are on the bench, then in the stands.

"He is struggling a bit right now. But we will be fine. We have time to get him back to where we want him."

South Africa face co-hosts Mexico in the World Cup opener in Mexico City on June 11, followed by a clash with the Czech Republic in Atlanta on June 18, and a final Group A match against South Korea six days later in Monterrey.