Banyana could have taken full advantage of Australia friendly
IT WAS commendable that Safa secured an international friendly against world-ranked No.12 Australia, but it is regrettable that Banyana Banyana are not taking full advantage of the occasion.
Instead of Banyana fielding their strongest line-up, red tape has robbed the team of players who have been earmarked for World Cup duty next year.
Spain-based defender Noko Matlou and France-based midfielder Noxolo Cesane did not secure the required travel documents to England and are forced to miss the match.
Paperwork problems
Locally-based player Cynthia Makete processed her passport application late and failed to secure the required paperwork.
Another key player missing on the trip is goalkeeper Andile Dlamini who has a family bereavement.
The spate of withdrawals has opened the way for Uk-based midfielder Faith Nokuthula to earn a call-up. She plies her trade at Blackburn Rovers after she moved from Brighton & Hove Albion earlier this year.
Another young player in the tour squad is the Free State 18-year-old striker Nthabiseng Majiya who had two spells as a substitute at the recent Women’s Africa Cup on Nations in Morocco.
The two teams have never met before, and the match will be historic since Australia’s national women’s team have never played against African opposition.
Only Banyana's Italian-based midfielder Refiloe Jane has knowledge of the Matildas, as the Australians are known. Two years ago, she spent a season playing for Canberra United in Australia’s A-league Women.
The Australian women's team has in the past played against teams from all Fifa federations except Caf.
Australian coach Tony Gustavsson feels the match will provide valuable input as the team prepares for next year’s World Cup.
“South Africa are current champions of Africa and a team that is fast rising in esteem in women’s football. On the road to their first African Cup of Nations title, they demonstrated excellent qualities as a team and as individuals that should ensure an entertaining and challenging encounter,” said Gustavsson.