Rusty Banyana relish Japan test

Having last been in camp in August, Banyana Banyana captain Janine van Wyk says coming up against Japan next will be a huge task for Banyana, but every player called up for the game will be excited.

Banyana will face Japan in a friendly at the Kitakyushu Stadium on November 11.

Desiree Ellis’ team played their last competitive match against Botswana in an Olympic qualifier, which they went on to lose 3-2 on penalties after playing two goalless draws in the first and second legs.

“We haven’t been in camp for a while so that is a challenge in itself but everyone is going to be excited to come together and play some games,” said the defender.

“After the loss against Botswana players will want to prove a point that it was a fluke and that if you don’t take your chances you will lose games. Hopefully, against strong opponents like Japan, we will come up with a good result to give us that confidence boost once again within ourselves as the national team and we will know we are still a quality team that will put up a fight against any major team we face.”

The last time Banyana and the Japanese met was in the group stages at the London Olympic Games in 2012, with the sides sharing the spoils after their 0-0 draw. Now seven years later, the Banyana skipper says there have been a lot of changes in the two sides.

“Women’s football has grown so much since then, I think both teams have changed a lot, however, I think Japan are very well-disciplined and organised and would probably keep their style because of the strength they have.”