Banyana Banyana expect difficult challenge at FIFA World Cup

Banyana Banyana vice-captain Refiloe Jane is expecting a difficult challenge at the upcoming 2019 FIFA World Cup in France.

The eighth edition of the women’s tournament will take place from June 7 until July 7. Banyana are paired in a tricky group featuring Germany, Spain and China.

The team has engaged in several high-profile preparations before the big tournament. They played against Netherlands.

Jamaica and Sweden this year and also competed in the Cyprus Cup. Jane says it was good preparation for them.

It will be the first time Banyana will compete at the biggest footballing stage. They have already competed in the two Olympics in London in 2012, and also in Rio, Brazil in 2016.

Recently they played against the world champions USA and were humiliated 3-0. Jane took the positives in that match.

Meanwhile, Tshwane University of Technology hosted a send-off event in Pretoria on Wednesday for their two Banyana players who will be going to the World Cup.

Jane and striker Busisiwe Ndimeni are part of coach Desiree Ellis strong squad. Jane was grateful of the gesture.

TUT women’s team has been dominating local football in recent years. They are the current Varsity Cup champions and also the reigning Sasol League National Champions.

TUT director of Sports Shadrack Nthangeni wished the ladies best of luck at the World Cup. – Report by Vincent Sitsula