In the heart of South Africa, a wave of inspiration is sweeping through the nation, fueled by the remarkable achievements of Banyana Banyana, the country’s beloved women’s football team. With their unwavering determination and undeniable talent, these fierce athletes are not only rewriting the narrative of women in sports but also leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of millions. As they take to the field, Banyana Banyana is not just playing a game; they are igniting a fire within their nation, proving that dreams can be realized regardless of gender or societal expectations.

From the dusty townships to the bustling cities, their victories have become a rallying cry, empowering young girls, and women alike to break barriers, pursue their passions, and shatter stereotypes. Join us as we delve into this incredible team and explore their journey to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023; inspiring the nation to reach for greatness.

Banyana Banyana at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

Banyana Banyana will proudly be representing South Africa for the second time at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. The tournament will be held in Australia & New Zealand between 20 July and 20 August. The national team will be playing against others in the Group G division: Sweden, Italy, and Argentina. The team will be looking to overturn the crushing defeat they suffered in their 2019 World Cup debut where they finished last in their group: conceding 8 goals to Spain, China, and Germany.

The opening game this weekend should be a challenge since their opponents, Sweden, won 3 World Cup bronze medals in 1991, 2011, and 2019. But the national team is prepared for the battle after what they achieved at WAFCON in 2022.  

Banyana Banyana: Journey to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

Unfortunately, Banyana Banyana’s journey since their remarkable claim of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy after winning against Morocco (2-1) last year has not been an easy one. The players boycotted a match against Botswana early in July 2023 over a pay dispute with the South African soccer association. This issue was however resolved by the Motsepe Foundation, which donated US$320,000 to the players, to allow them to make it to Australia & New Zealand ahead of their friendly match against Costa Rica on 15 July 2023.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Banyana Banyana Squad

South Africa’s football ambassadors are a winning squad comprised of:

Keepers

Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Kebotseng Moletsane 

Defenders

Karabo Dhlamini, Fikile Magama, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Noko Matlou, Bongeka Gamede, Bambanani Mbane 

Midfielders

Kholosa Biyana, Refiloe Jane, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Nomvula Kgoale, Robyn Moodaly 

Forwards

Jermaine Seoposenwe, Thembi Kgatlana, Noxolo Cesane, Melinda Kgadiete, Wendy Shongwe, Hildah Magaia, Gabriela Salgado 

Banyana Banyana Players We Are Looking Out for During the World Cup

During the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, South Africa will be relying on the experience of the 13 players featured in the previous contest, namely:

Janine van Wyk

Van Wyk is the most-capped African women’s footballer with 183 international appearances. 

Refiloe Jane

Jane led the team to victory at WAFCON with co-captain Van Wyk. As Sassuolo (Italian football club) midfielder, she will be leading Banyana Banyana in the tournament. She also spent time in the Australian W League in 2019 under Canberra United. Nicknamed ‘Fifinho,’ Jane is seasoned at major championships, having represented South Africa at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games. 

Linda Motlhalo

Motlhalo as a midfielder is one of the country’s commanders with 18 goals in 65 games. 

Andile Dlamini

Dlamini was voted the best goalkeeper at WAFCON 2022. 

Thembi Kgatlana

Kgatlana is a top striker that will want to repeat her World Cup debut where she scored South Africa’s only goal in their opener against Spain. 

Banyana Banyana’s FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Schedule

Catch Banyana Banyana during these times:

23 July 2023

Sweden vs South Africa, 7:00 am S.A. time at Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington. 

28 July 2023

Argentina vs South Africa, 2:00 am S.A. time at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dudein. 

2 August 2023

South Africa vs Italy, 9:00 S.A. time at Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington.

Great Places in Gauteng to Catch the Highlights of Banyana Banyana’s Games During the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

SuperSport will be streaming the games live, but if you prefer an electric atmosphere, here are 5 great places to catch Banyana Banyana’s matches this season:

Benchwarmers Sports Bar

2 Bolton Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196 

Sportsman’s Pub

401 Commissioner St, Fairview, Johannesburg, 2094 

Laduma Sports Bar and Lounge

104 High St, Brixton, Johannesburg, 2019 

Time Out Sports Bar

Kyalami Downs, R55 Kyalami Blvd, Kyalami, Midrand, 1684 

Ballbreakers Mondeor

2 Ormonde Dr, Mondeor, Johannesburg South, 2091