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Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, has called on Banyana Banyana to keep their heads held high and draw inspiration from their journey following their unexpected elimination from the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
South Africa’s campaign came to an end in the knockout stages after a hard-fought encounter against tournament hosts Morocco. Despite putting up a brave fight, the national team was unable to progress further in a tournament characterized by fiercely competitive encounters across the continent.
“The team gave it their all but unfortunately it was not enough to see them through this time around,” said MEC Maile. “It is evident that all the teams participating in this year’s installation of the WAFCON came fully prepared and determined to win. It is unfortunate that Banyana’s journey in the competition came to an end unexpectedly”.
Commending the team’s grit, Maile applauded Coach Desiree Ellis, the squad, and the technical team for showing tremendous resolve after a challenging start to the tournament. He emphasized that reaching the knockout stage was no small feat given the rapidly rising standards of African women’s football.
“We are still proud of Banyana Banyana despite their elimination from the competition as they displayed courage, determination, and resilience,” Maile stated. “The team put up a brave fight against formidable teams of the continent throughout the competition”.
Looking ahead, the MEC expressed optimism regarding the future of women’s football in South Africa, highlighting the growing structural support within the domestic game. He noted that the increasing number of Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs establishing women’s sides provides a solid foundation to rebuild and nurture talent for upcoming international challenges.
“We want to encourage the team to use the experience to deeply reflect and prepare for future competitions better,” he added. “Women’s football is growing and developing well in our country… With this positive development, we are certain that we can rebuild for the future”.
Connecting the team’s fight to South Africa’s rich heritage, Maile pointed to the historic 1956 Women’s March as a symbol of endurance for the squad to draw strength from.
“Their determination to keep on fighting is emblematic of the spirit of the women of 1956 who never wavered even when it was difficult,” Maile concluded. “As we observe the 70th anniversary of the historic Women’s march, we wish to encourage Banyana not to be despondent and learn from those who came before them as they prepare for the future”.
