Banyana Banyana will face Mozambique in the AWCON qualifier return leg on Tuesday, 26 October at the FNB stadium to air on SABC 3 (SABC Sports) at 3 pm.
This follows after Banyana Banyana was unstoppable in the AWCON qualifier first leg encounter against Mozambique in Maputo on 20 October 2021 when they thrashed the home team 7 – 0. It is a crucial game for Banyana Banyana as the team hopes to book a place in the AWCON final scheduled to take place in Morocco next year after being previously cancelled due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Banyana Banyana Head Coach Desiree Ellis says: “The team is ready mentally and physically for the match tomorrow. We are grateful that we have no injuries that will derail us from the plan we have in place”.
Thembi Kgatlana who plays for Athletico Madrid expressed gratitude for being included in the line-up. She confirmed that being called up for the national team is one of the most gratifying moments in any athlete’s career. She indicated that the experience from the international players will be advantageous for the team but cautioned that the Mozambique team will come with guns blazing for tomorrow’s game. She assured that the Banyana Banyana team is, however, ready for them.
Wendy Shongwe who will be playing for the national team for the first time is elated at the opportunity of representing the country at this important encounter. She confirmed it has always been her dream to adorn the national colours and she is looking forward to the game on Tuesday because although she is nervous about this big step, her senior players have taught her to be brave.
Last week Sasol announced the extension of their relationship with the South African Football Association (SAFA) for a further four years.
Banyana Banyana squad for the return leg of the AWCON qualifier:
GOALKEEPERS:
1. Kaylin Swart (JVW FC)
2. Regirl Ngobeni (University of Western Cape)
DEFENDERS:
3. Lebohang Ramalepe (Dinamo Minsk)
4. Janine Van Wyk (JVW FC)
5. Tiisetso Makhubela (Tshwane University of Technology)
6. Bambanani Mbane (Mamelodi Sundowns FC)
7. Mandisa Faya (Lindelani Ladies FC)
8. Asanda Hadebe (Sunflower WFC)
MIDFIELDERS:
9. Sibulele Holweni (University of Western Cape)
10. Refiloe Jane (AC Milan)
11. Linda Motlhalo (Djurgarden FC)
12. Gabriela Salgado (JVW FC)
13. Noxolo Cesane (University of Western Cape)
14. Oratile Mokwena (Mamelodi Sundowns FC)
15. Robyn Moodaly (JVW FC)
FORWARDS
16. Hildah Magaia (Moron BK)
17. Melinda Kgadiete (Mamelodi Sundowns FC)
18. Thembi Kgatlana (Athletico Madrid)
