Banyana Banyana are keeping South Africa’s World Cup dreams alive

“They fought like the heroines we know they are. They fought to be historically remembered and they’ve made history in not just getting our first win, but going to the round of 16, and that is freaking amazing” – coach Desiree Ellis

In true South African tenacity, Banyana Banyana took down the goliath Italian team in the Fifa World Cup, winning their way into the second round.

This is a momentous achievement for a team that has had to overcome many challenges, including a lack of financial support and significantly less respect than their male counterparts.

But we do love an underdog story, and the country is rallying behind the women in green and gold as they fight their way towards the cup. Here’s what we know…

1. Number 3 for the win

Banyana Banyana has played three World Cup matches, first losing 2-1 to Sweden, before drawing with Argentina 2-2, and now taking the much-needed 3-2 win against Italy. Banyana Banyana has now secured passage into the final 16 of this global soccer spectacle.

2. Next up… Netherlands

There’s not much time to gloat as Banyana Banyana is taking on the Netherlands on Saturday (5 August 5) at Sydney Football Stadium. The Netherlands is the outright favourite, with bookmakers giving them an 83% chance of winning Sunday’s match, meaning Banyana Banyana are going to have to bring everything they have.

3. Banyana playing to win

Banyana Banyana is coming in as the reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions, so they are not unprepared.

They also have a number of standout players to watch out for, including midfielder Linda Motlhalo who is dubbed the ‘Randfontein Ronaldinho’ with 18 goals after 65 caps for her country.

Jermaine Seoposenwe has emerged as the side’s No 1 striker, with her football journey taking her to the USA, Spain, Portugal and Mexico.

There’s also midfielder Refiloe ‘Fifi’ Jane who has experience on New Zealand turf and the only player to have competed in Women’s Olympic Football Tournament London 2012 and Rio 2016, most recent WAFCONS, France 2019 and Australia & New Zealand 2023.

4. Next round bonus

Making the second round is not only a history-making achievement, it also ensures the team gets a well-deserved payout from FIFA. Banyana Banyana will get $1.38 million shared equally across the squad members, equating to $60 000 (around R1.1 million) per player in the team.

5. Calls for equal pay

Yet another bonus – both for Banyana Banyana and women’s rights – President Cyril Ramaphosa has now called for equal pay for equal work in football and other sports.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said: “The president calls on the leadership of the sport and those associated with the game to ensure the equal pay for equal work principle is adhered to in football and in all women’s sports.”

Win, lose, or draw on Sunday, this indomitable team of tenacious footballers have already made history by defying the odds, advocating for equality, and becoming role models for South African girls. A true example to follow as we head into Women’s Month.

Sources:
Daily Maverick
www.olympics.com
www.goalballlive.com
www.iol.co.za

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