In Banyana we believe

Congratulations to Banyana Banyana for qualifying for the 2022 edition of the African Women’s Cup of Nations to be staged in Morocco. I believe that Banyana’s performance has been on an upward trajectory since the 2018 Afcon in which they came second to Nigeria.

They scored 16 goals in four games during the qualifiers, conceding only one with no less than nine different scorers. Furthermore, they netted four times against a much-fancied Nigeria in the Aisha Buhari Cup Final last year. Considering the experience of oversees-based players, in addition to the harmony in the team and the technical astuteness of coach Desiree Ellis, I believe that come July 23 Banyana will be crowned African champions.

I am of the view that with unconditional support from every patriotic South African and a proper allocation of resources from SAFA, the task of winning the title can in a way be simplified. Especially when one considers that four of the qualified nations are debutants in the tournament while three have only participated once. Therefore, Banyana Banyana’s 12 previous showings in the tournament may give them the edge to overcome their opponents.

By Hlolizwe Hlophe, Orange Farm