In a highly-anticipated event held at the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, unveiled the Banyana Banyana squad for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The final squad is packed will be captained by Refiloe Jane, and she will be supported by co-vice captains Andile Dlamini and Thembi Kgatlana.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment for South African women’s football, as the nation’s brightest stars prepare to showcase their talent on the global stage for only the second time after making their debut in the 2019 World Cup in France.
Looking back, Banyana Banyana’s journey has been filled with remarkable achievements. Just last year, they clinched their first-ever Women’s African Cup of Nations title, cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with. This triumph showcased the team’s determination, resilience, and unwavering belief in their abilities.
Despite facing challenges at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France, where they experienced defeat in all three matches, Banyana Banyana emerged with invaluable experience, with immense growth gained from that tournament. It served as a turning point, propelling players to new opportunities abroad and opening doors for them to compete on international stages.
Goalkeeper Andile Dlamini said: “So at the 2019 France World Cup, we lost all three matches, but we gained so much experience, the experience was amazing! The first game we were in control for quite some minutes and we were even to be able to score. That was just amazing, it meant so much to us, and we are capable of doing more. It was our first experience.
“We would have loved to win all our games, but it wasn’t meant for us that time. It was just God saying, ‘Just go there, perform to the best of your abilities. Just show the world what you’re capable of.’ And so many players got chosen to play overseas, which is incredible. I think this upcoming World Cup will also give an opportunity to all of us to showcase our talents and showcase what South Africans are capable of.”
One standout moment from the 2019 World Cup was Thembi Kgatlana’s historic goal against Spain, which marked South Africa’s first-ever World Cup goal. Kgatlana’s exceptional performance not only elevated her own career but also garnered recognition as she was named the Momentum Athlete of the Year at the prestigious 2019 Momentum gsport Awards. Her subsequent moves to renowned clubs worldwide solidified her status as one of Banyana Banyana’s star players.
Kgatlana is not alone in her pursuit of excellence on foreign soil. Several Banyana Banyana players have ventured abroad, honing their skills and gaining invaluable experience. Now, as they prepare for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, these players aim to bring their international magic back to the national team, fostering a united spirit and a shared goal of success.
Building on their recent victory in the Women’s African Cup of Nations, Banyana Banyana has set their sights on making their mark at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The carefully chosen squad, blending seasoned veterans and emerging talents, is a testament to the team’s progress and the unwavering commitment of their coaching staff and support personnel.
As the squad announcement reverberates across the nation, excitement and anticipation fill the air. South Africa stands united, ready to rally behind Banyana Banyana, offering unwavering support as they embark on this thrilling chapter. The upcoming World Cup holds the promise of new beginnings, fresh challenges, and the opportunity for these remarkable athletes to shine on the global stage.
With each training session, each tactical discussion, and each display of skill, Banyana Banyana is shaping a legacy that inspires future generations and challenges preconceived notions. The world is about to witness the strength, determination, and unwavering spirit of South African women’s football.
As we eagerly await the opening match, let us reflect on the journey that has brought us here. It is a journey of triumphs and setbacks, of growth and determination. Banyana Banyana’s journey embodies the hopes and dreams of a nation, and the upcoming World Cup is their chance to make those dreams a reality.
The stage is set, the world is watching, and Banyana Banyana stands ready to leave an indelible mark on the beautiful game. Let us stand together as a nation, united in our support and belief in their abilities. The countdown begins, and the future is filled with anticipation as Banyana Banyana prepares to prove that they are a formidable force to be reckoned with.
The Final Banyana Banyana Squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup:
Goalkeepers:
Andile Dlamini
Kaylin Swart
Kebotseng Moletsane
Defenders:
Karabo Dhlamini
Fikile Magama
Lebohang Ramalepe
Tiisetso Makhubela
Noko Matlou
Bambanani Mbane
Bongeka Gamede
Midfielders:
Kholosa Biyana
Refiloe Jane
Sibelele Holweni
Linda Motlhalo
Nomvula Kgoale
Robyn Moodaly
Forwards:
Gabriela Salgado
Jermaine Seoposenwe
Noxolo Cesane
Melinda Kgadiete
Wendy Shongwe
Hildah Magaia
Thembi Kgatlana
Standby Players:
Nthabiseng Magiya
Amogelang Motau
Regirl Ngobeni
Photo Caption: The final Banyana Banyana squad has been announced for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in a highly-anticipated event held at the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa. Photo: gsport
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