Ellis’ chosen ‘are ready’

Tshepo Ntsoelengoe

After announcing the squad that will depart to Ghana for the Caf Africa Women’s Cup of Nations on Friday, Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis admitted the selection process had been difficult.

She said: “It was a difficult task to pin down the final 21. But I am confident that the players we have chosen will do the business. Too many times we have come close to winning and I think we feel ready for the competition.”

“We’ve had good preparation, but [that] doesn’t guarantee success. You have to execute plans and all the training sessions.”

Skipper Janine van Wyk added that it was important for the team to do well and make it into top three to qualify for the World Cup.

“It’s the last chance for some of us to qualify for the World Cup.

“But I strongly believe this is the team that will take us to France ... because we have players that are highly experienced in the team... and that is what is going to make us go out there and put up a good fight,” said Van Wyk.