As temperatures soar above 35°C in Morocco, South Africa’s senior women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, remains laser-focused on their WAFCON 2025 campaign.
In an exclusive interview, one of the team’s senior players said despite the blistering heat, the squad is determined to bring the trophy home again after their historic 2022 title win.
“We’re very honored and excited to be here. It’s not just about the weather—it’s about fighting for our country,” she said.
Legacy Over Comfort: “We’re Playing for Something Bigger”
Returning to Morocco as defending champions for the first time, Banyana Banyana have made it clear they are here to win. The player emphasized the emotional and symbolic weight the tournament carries for the team:
“We want to leave a legacy—not just as soccer players, but for the next generation. We owe it to our families, coaches, and the women who paved the way.”
Focus on Tanzania: One Game at a Time
With their first game already secured and three points in the bag, the squad now shifts focus to their next group stage match against Tanzania.
“Tanzania is full of energy and won’t be an easy team to beat. But we respect them—we fear no one.”
The team is maintaining a calm mindset, brushing off pressure and instead concentrating on performance, unity, and converting their chances on the field.
Hunger Still Alive: “That’s a Lie”
To those questioning whether Banyana still has the hunger after AFCON and World Cup appearances, the response was blunt:
“That’s a lie. Passion doesn’t disappear. There’s so much we still want to achieve—for our people, for that young girl watching, for history.”
What It Will Take to Go All the Way
Winning again, the player said, depends on consistent defense, converting chances, unity, and loud support from South Africans.
“Nothing beats communication and unity. We’re asking all South Africans—watch us, support us, make noise for your country.”
Unlock Exclusive Content!
Subscribe to the Pondoland Times weekly newsletter for trusted alerts on SASSA payments, NSFAS funding, and breaking local news. Get exclusive interviews, community features, and verified stories you can rely on—delivered straight to your inbox.
