Mbane paves way for future stars
Banyana defender inspires young girls
After helping Bloemfontein Celtic Ladies defend their Sasol League National Championship title at the weekend, Banyana Banyana defender Bambanani Mbane hopes her achievements will inspire young girls to play football.
The 27-year-old bagged queen of the tournament and queen of queens accolades at the competition that ended at Kabokweni Stadium in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, at the weekend.
Mbane was rock solid in the final where Melinda Kgadiete’s brace proved to be enough for the Phunya Sele Sele girls to retain their national crown via a 2-0 win over Cape Town Roses.
“It is a wonderful experience to win these awards,” said Mbane. “I think young girls from townships will be motivated to see me achieving things in my career. I want to inspire more girls to start playing soccer.
“I am a role model to some people and I must always give them a reason to look up to me. These awards are not only for me, but for the whole team.”
Mbane’s eye-catching displays throughout the six-day women’s competition were also hailed by Safa president Danny Jordaan who said he wished Bafana Bafana had such a centre-back.
The Sterkspruit, Eastern Cape-born defender is likely to be called up for Banyana for their international friendly against Sweden at Cape Town Stadium on January 21.
She played every minute during Banyana Banyana’s recent Cosafa Cup triumph in Zimbabwe.