SEDIBENG.- It was hugs, kisses, and congratulations when Banyana Banyana Head Coach Desiree Ellis announced her final squad for the FIFA Women’s Worl Cup on Friday evening.
This selection followed the camp with players who had a chance to impress the technical squad for a place in the team. However, there were no surprises with 95% of the players being those who were part of the AFCON. This overwhelming occasion was attended by the who’s of who in football with Bafana Bafana legends, Rucas Radebe, and Pitso Mosimane being among the notable names who graced the event and congratulate those who were been selected.
Emotions were running high after Ellis named the final squad that will represent the county in this upcoming Women’s World Cup due to take place in Australia and New Zealand from 20 July and 20 August.
Refiloe Jane will continue as Banyana Banyana captain with Thembi Kgatlane and Andile Dlamini named as vice-captains. Banyana Banyana is in Group G alongside Argentina, Sweden, and Italy. They will play their opening match against Sweden on 23 July.
Former Bafana Bafana Captain Lucas Radebe said he knows the feeling of the players as he has been there before.
“Look I can tell you what is going in the mind of the players because being selected to play in the World Cup is a lifetime opportunity. Congratulation to those players who were selected and I do not doubt that they will make us proud. I have been following Banyana Banyana games and I must say, I’m impressed with the way they play. I do not doubt that they will hoist our country’s flag high.
Pitso Mosimane also congratulated those who have been selected saying being selected to play in the World Cup is the biggest thing in the world.
“World Cup is not like other tournaments, the stake is high there with the best in the world coming together to compete against each other,” said Mosimane.
BANYANA BANYANA FINAL FULL SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS:
Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Kebotseng Moletsane,
DEFENDERS:
Karabo Dhlamini, Fikile Magama, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Noko Matlou, Bambani Mbane, Bongeka Gamede
MIDFIELDERS:
Kholosa Biyana, Refiloe Jane, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Nomvula Kgoale, Robyn Moodaly
FORWARDS:
Gabriela Salgado, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Noxolo Cesane, Melinda Kgadiete, Wendy Shongwe, Hildah Magaia, Thembi Kgatlana.
