South Africa’s Banyana Banyana had a forgettable send-off for the FIFA Women’s World Cup as they suffered a 5-0 loss to Botswana in a friendly match.
Desiree Ellis’ ladies did not come out for the match at the Tsakane Stadium on Sunday afternoon after majority of the player complained about the state of the stadium that is not FIFA approved.
It was a different team that stepped out for Sunday’s game against Botswana – a squad that has no national team experience and it has a 13-year-old.
Reports in South Africa claim the South African Football Association (SAFA) did not organise a proper send-off for the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s Minister of Sport – Zizi Kodwa has called for a meeting with the country’s football players’ union on Tuesday and he urged Banyana Banyana to stay focused for the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
“I urge the team to be focused on the major task that lies ahead … I will be meeting with the South Africa Football Players’ Union on Tuesday to hear the serious concerns expressed by the team,” Kodwa stated.
“The meeting will consider issues pertaining to the government’s commitment and support to the team, the team’s working, welfare and health conditions, including transparency and accountability related to the signing of contracts.”
South Africa have a friendly against Costa Rica scheduled for July 15 before they begin their Group G challenge at the Women’s World Cup against Sweden on July 23.
