Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana will face the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Wednesday 25 October, in the first leg away from home and then host the Congolese in South Africa on Monday 30 October.
“We would like to congratulate everyone who has been selected to represent the team against the DRC. The last time the team qualified for the Olympic Women’s football was in 2016 and we believe that the selected team can change that, we encourage each and everyone to bring their A-game and do the impossible”, said Sasol’s senior manager: Brand and Sponsorships Nozipho Mbatha.
The two matches that will be played will also serve as a farewell match for Banyana Banyana defender Janine Van Wyk who has earned 183 international caps and is now the most capped player, male or female on the continent following her call-up. Janine who has led the Banyana team at the 2016 Olympic games and the 2019 World Cup will play her last match following the announcement of her retirement.
“The world has witnessed the true meaning of believing in your dreams and living the impossible through Janine. Her contribution to women football has been phenomenal and we have no doubts that she has inspired her teammates and the rest of the women who aspire to become professional footballers. We wish her all the best.” Said Mbatha.
The team will face off with the DRC with some missing players – Nomvula Kgoale and Tiisetso Makhubela are both injured while Bongeka Gamede withdrew due to her final exams. Jermaine Seopsenewe and Samekelisiwe Selana are expected to join the team for the return leg in South Africa. Both matches will be aired on the SABC Sports channel. Kick-off time for the first match will be at 16:30.
