Iqraam Rayners has emerged as the best striker in South Africa, proving his quality week in and week out for Mamelodi Sundowns, writes DYLAN JOHNSON.
His journey from a challenging spell at SuperSport United to becoming the most complete forward in the PSL is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and undeniable talent.
This season, Rayners has been nothing short of outstanding, with 23 goal contributions in 29 appearances across all competitions. While he currently trails his teammate Lucas Ribeiro Costa in the PSL’s golden boot race, he leads the league in assists, underlining his ability to create as much as he scores. His understanding of space, decision-making in key moments, and relentless work rate make him a vital component of Sundowns’ attacking force.
Rayners’ evolution into an elite striker was already evident in his final season at Stellenbosch FC in 2023-24, where he finished second in the PSL golden boot race with 15 goals, just one behind Orlando Pirates’ Tshegofatso Mabasa. His performances helped Stellenbosch secure a third-place finish in the league, their highest ever, while also winning the Carling Knockout Cup.
Since joining Sundowns for the 2024-25 season, he has seamlessly transitioned into a team packed with talent, forming a lethal partnership with Lucas Ribeiro Costa, who boasts 17 goals and 11 assists this season. Their chemistry has been instrumental in Sundowns’ dominance, with the team sitting 18 points clear of Orlando Pirates in the league and progressing through to the CAF Champions League knockout stages.
Rayners is more than just a goal-scorer. He thrives in one-on-one situations, has exceptional positional instincts, and possesses a lethal finishing ability with both feet. His versatility across the frontline allows him to operate as the main striker or shift to the wings when needed. He also excels in link-up play, pressing opponents relentlessly, and making intelligent runs into space. Beyond his technical abilities, Rayners is a leader on the pitch—composed under pressure, decisive in big moments, and always lifting the level of those around him.
Now surrounded by world-class teammates at Sundowns, Rayners is reaching new heights. His ability to deliver in high-stakes situations makes him South Africa’s finest striker and a key figure in Sundowns’ pursuit of domestic and continental glory. With his current trajectory, there is no doubt that Iqraam Rayners is the gold standard for strikers in South African football today.
Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images