Banyana Banyana, optimistic of defeating Mozambique in a friendly international on Sunday, were treated to a sumptuous dinner by the executive mayor of the city of Mbombela, Ms. Cathy Dlamini, at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit on Wednesday evening (5 June).

The reception was attended by representatives from the local municipality, members of the mayoral committee and South African Football Association (SAFA) Enhlanzeni Regional President, Mr. Gay Mokoena.

Mr. Mokoena opened proceedings by welcoming the Sasol-sponsored women’s national team to Mbombela and encouraged the national team to always hold the national flag high.

“It is an honour having Banyana Banyana in Mbombela once again; you must feel at home because this is your home,” said Mokoena adding that he was excited about the launch of the boys and girls Under-13 and Under-15 leagues.

“I was thrilled about the commencement of the leagues, a few weeks ago, of the U13 and U15 leagues countrywide and hope the process will galvanise the growth of women football especially in our province where women football has been lagging behind.

“We would also like to see many of you girls making other contributions beyond just playing football. We want you to emulate former Banyana Banyana player, Simphiwe Dludlu who acquired her UEFA B Licence certificate in Holland. We want to see you excelling in other different fields of work and contribute towards nation building,” said Mokoena.

Banyana Banyana captain, Janine van Wyk told the guests that the team was truly humbled by the warm welcome they got from the executive mayor of Mbombela.

“On behalf of the team, I would like thank the mayor for taking time off her busy schedule to meet and dine with the team. We are truly humbled by the affectionate reception and for the privilege to dine and wine with the wonderful people of Mbombela,” said van Wyk.

The executive mayor, Ms. Dlamini said she was very happy to host one of the fastest rising national teams in Africa.

“We are excited to have you in Mbombela, we are truly proud to host you during the Youth month and we want nothing short of victory on Sunday.

“Don’t forget you hold very influential roles in the country as you represent over 50 million people in South Africa. You are also representing and empowering women all over the world. You are the role models of many young people and keep inspiring the many South African youths out there,” said Dlamini.

Banyana Banyana will have a light training session this afternoon before taking on a select Sasol league
women’s side from Mpumalanga in a practice match in preparation for the upcoming friendly.
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