Past World Cup experience developed Sundowns Ladies shot-stopper.
Dlamini was consistently reliable for South Africa as she played a crucial role in Banyana Banyana’s first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco last year.
Andile Dlamini is one of six Sundowns Ladies who made the final 23-women squad of Banyana Banyana to compete in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The tournament is set to start on Thursday, July 20 in Australia and New Zealand.
Dlamini started two matches when Banyana Banyana made a debut in the Women’s World Cup in 2019.
Dlamini, also known as “Sticks”, believes that the experience she gained at that tournament was crucial for her overall development as a player.
She says the experience of playing at the FIFA World Cup in 2019 had a profound impact on her as a player.
“It allowed me to see football from a different perspective and gain a fresh understanding of the game,” says the Sundowns Ladies goalkeeper.
Sticks says the intensity and magnitude of the tournament helped her appreciate the emotions that come with competing at such a high level.
“It reminded me that, ultimately, we are all human beings and the pressure and passion of the game can evoke powerful emotions.”
The reigning African champions find themselves in Group G, where they will face formidable opponents such as Sweden, Argentina and Italy.
Dlamini believes that this group presents an exciting challenge for Banyana Banyana.
“While we acknowledge the experience gained four years ago, this year’s edition presents a different kind of challenge.”
She says there are different hosting countries this time around and the teams in their group are also different.
“We understand that each tournament has its challenges and opportunities and we are prepared to adapt and overcome whatever obstacles come our way,” Dlamini says with confidence.
“Our commitment to success remains unwavering and we are ready to give our all in pursuit of our goals,” Sticks adds
Her favourite World Cup hero who has inspired her the most is former American goalkeeper Hope Solo
“I have always admired and drawn inspiration from Hope Solo.
“Her exceptional skills as a goalkeeper and her ability to command the game was truly remarkable,” says Dlamini.
Dlamini says Solo demonstrated great resilience and determination, consistently performing at the highest level.
“Solo’s impact on women’s football and her achievements on the World Cup stage has left a lasting impression on me,” she continues.
Dlamini was consistently reliable for South Africa as she played a crucial role in Banyana Banyana’s first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco last year.
Her exceptional shot-stopping abilities proved invaluable as Banyana Banyana conceded a mere three goals throughout their journey to a historic title.
Consequently, Dlamini deservedly received the prestigious accolade of Goalkeeper of the tournament.
She was also named the Best Goalkeeper of the Group Stage by CAF.
The shot-stopper was also an integral member of the treble-winning squad with Sundowns Ladies in 2021.
Additionally, she has been a part of the team that has secured the Hollywoodbets Super League title three times in a row showcasing her consistency and skill in helping the team achieve historic victories.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
