Iqraam Rayners to Force Way Into Hugo Broos’ Bafana Squad With Strong Stellies Performances

• Iqraam Rayners was unlucky to be left out of Hugo Broos' Bafana Bafana AFCON side
• The Stellies striker admits to being disappointed but will work hard to be recognised
• Stellenbosch FC resume their DStv Premiership campaign against SuperSport United

Iqraam Rayners is determined to turn disappointment into opportunity.

Stellenbosch FC's rapid workhorse was in the mix to earn a spot on the plane to Ivory Coast but fate had other plans.

The return of the DStv Premiership presents the opportunity for Rayners to begin his quest to make the next Bafana Bafana squad in June.

While Rayners may have made the standby list, it would be of little consolation, as he would remain in South Africa to experience the bronze medal success from afar.

Daine Klate and Moeneeb Josephs imparting their winning mentality at NB La Masia

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Not allowing himself to dwell on the past, he has Stellenbosch's interests in his sights. Speaking to SowetanLive, he said:

"For me, it’s all about focusing on my club first before I think about Bafana. I know that if I continue doing well for Stellenbosch, opportunities will come."

The 28-year-old will be looking to add to his five league goals under lights against SuperSport United, as per TransferMarkt.

Mamelodi Sundowns may be running away with the league, but the second CAF Champions League qualification spot will be hotly contested.

SuperSport are level with Cape Town City, just three points ahead of Stellenbosch, who have a game in hand.

Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs are within touching distance, and if one includes Golden Arrows, just six points separate the second and seventh-placed teams.

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With 14 tightly-packed games left before the season concludes at the end of May, every point is going to be precious in the race for continental football.

Rayners will have a vital role to play with a national reward at the end of the road.

5 DStv Premiership players to watch

Sports Brief recently compiled a list of exciting DStv Premiership players to watch as the season resumes.

The list features young talent, strikers with a point to prove and a surprise transfer up against his old club.

The DStv Premiership resumption begins on Friday evening with Stellenbosch FC at SuperSport United.