Local Players Honour Banyana Banyana Friendly vs Botswana

A changed Banyana Banyana outfit turned up for the scheduled international friendly against Botswana at Tsakane Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, 2 July 2023.

With 18 days to go to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Desiree Ellis’ chargers were set to play their African counterparts as part of their preparations for the world stage, however the senior national team players boycotted the encounter due to the unsuitability of the chosen stadium.

Apart from the venue, the reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions also highlighted their unhappiness regarding the financial arrangements ahead of the World Cup, where they will face Sweden, Argentina and Italy in Group G.

According to reports, each player will receive $30 000 each from FIFA for being at the World Cup, but nothing from the South African Football Association.

In turn, Banyana reacted by refusing to sign pre-tournament contracts, saying they wanted an additional $21 000 per player from the national association.

While the protest continued, on field, local Sasol League players were called in to honour the fixture, where South Africa suffered a 5-0 loss.

As the clock winds down ahead of the World Cup, Banyana Banyana are said to be leaving for New Zealand in two groups on Wednesday and Thursday.

They are also set to play Costa Rica in a final warm-up before they start their campaign against Sweden in Wellington on 23 July.

Photo 1 Caption: A changed Banyana Banyana outfit turned up for the scheduled international friendly against Botswana at Tsakane Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, 2 July 2023. Photo: SABC Sport (Twitter)