Lyle Foster discusses the goals Bafana Bafana have set for the 2025 AFCON finals. | OneFootball

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The stage is set in Morocco for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and for South Africa's Lyle Foster, the ambition is clear and unwavering. The Burnley striker has openly declared the lofty goal that he and his Bafana Bafana teammates have set for themselves as they prepare for the continental showdown.

Drawn into a highly competitive Group B, South Africa will lock horns with a familiar foe in Egypt, the record seven-time champions seeking payback for a painful 1-0 last-16 knockout inflicted by a Thembinkosi Lorch goal when they hosted the tournament in 2017. Adding to the regional intrigue, their group also includes perennial COSAFA rivals Zimbabwe and Angola.

Fueling this ambition is the momentum from their impressive bronze-medal finish at the last AFCON in Ivory Coast. With the nation's sole title victory now a distant memory from 1996—a feat achieved before Foster was even born—the team is driven to end a long-standing drought and write a new chapter in history.

Foster, who will be experiencing the tournament for the first time, left no room for doubt about the squad's intentions. "Yes, 100 per cent [Bafana want to make history]. That’s why we are here now. Amazing from the guys to finish third at the last one," he stated in an interview with SuperSport TV.

He elaborated on the clear path the team has charted for itself, acknowledging that their previous success has now set a higher benchmark. "Now, we are going to try by all means to go and better this one, the one we did the last time. The only way we can better that is to reach the final."

While focused on the penultimate step, Foster's belief in the squad is palpable. "Once we reach the final, we will see what happens. We are hoping to go all the way this time, and yes, I strongly believe in the squad and the players that we have, and that’s what is important."

Personally, the tournament represents a significant milestone for the 25-year-old, blending the weight of national history with the thrill of a personal debut. "I’m excited to be going out there. 1996 is a long time, so yes, I’m excited. Personally, it will be my first one. No doubt it will be tough, but I’m looking forward to it."