Three Banyana Banyana stars have pulled out of the squad for their double-header against four-time world champions USA, while SAFA announced Shield as new sponsor for the women’s national team.
Banyana will face the number third-ranked team in the world on 22 September at 1:30am (SAST) and on 24 September at 11:30pm (SAST).
Similar to South Africa, the US were knocked out in the round of 16 at the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup and it will be their first outing for both sides.
However, Banyana will have to make due without their ‘breadwinner’ Hildah Magaia, as well as Sibulele Holweni and Noko Matlou.
“Banyana Banyana will have a squad of 21 players in the USA, with a few changes to the team that was originally announced by Ellis a few days ago,” SAFA said via a statement.
“Hildah Magaia has been withdrawn for medical reasons, while Sibulele Holweni suffered an injury and will not make the trip.
“Noko Matlou will also not make the trip due to Visa challenges and she has been being replaced by Faith Nokuthula.”
Meanwhile, SAFA also announced that Shield came on board as new sponsor of Bayana.
“I would like to welcome and acknowledge our new sponsor, Shield, we want to welcome you to Banyana Banyana,” SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao said during a breakfast with Shield before Banyana headed to the US.
“These ladies have been tough on us to say we need to get more sponsors for the team, and we have been searching everywhere and knocking on closed doors. But thank you Shield for raising your hand and coming on board.
“The aim of this breakfast is to catch up as far as the sponsorship is concerned. It is because of sponsorships that the team is able to have such quality international friendlies. Without funding and sponsors, it becomes difficult for preparations to happen.
“To the Banyana Banyana players and staff, welcome back to camp. I know that it has not been long since you returned from the FIFA Women’s World Cup and I want to wish you all the best for your trip to the US.
“I hope you can continue from where you left off against the Netherlands. You made us all proud and everyone is excited about what this team is doing on the international stage.”
Meanwhile, Shield’s Sponsorship & Partnerships Lead Gareth Marshall expressed his excitement about the new partnership.
“It’s an honour to be here. We had been talking about Banyana Banyana for a while and we have been wanting to get this partnership over the line,” he said.
“Thank you for flying the South Africa flag so high, it really is an honour to be here. I look forward to this partnership and we really get to inspire the next generation. We have got some stories to tell and we look forward doing it with you.”
