Following the shock defeat to Tanzania in their 2026 Women’s Africa of Nations opener, Banyana Banyana midfielder Linda Motlhalo says there is no need for the team to put themselves under pressure.
Banyana lost 2-1 to the Twigga Stars in Casablanca on Monday and currently sit in third position in Group B with no point. Only the two top sides from the four groups at the tournament will advance to the knockout phase.
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Banyana now must win their second game in the pool against top-placed Ivory Coast who thrashed Burkina Faso 4-1 in their opener to give themselves a short at advancing out of the group. The continental showpiece also serves as a 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier.
Motlhalo told Safa.net that a tournament is not a sprint and the 2022 champions can still get back into it.
“It’s not the start that we wanted but I think the biggest thing now it’s just to reflect on where we went wrong,” said the Glasgow City midfielder.
“And we take the positives out of that game, and we get them to the next game. Yes, there’s still more games to play and it’s very important games. And we’re not going to put ourselves under pressure. We know what we’re capable of and we’ll just do the work when we get to the field.
“As players, we understand that this is football, and sometimes things won’t go our way. But I think the biggest thing is to dig deep, and it’s a tournament. It’s a long tournament there’s a lot of games that are going to be played. So, for us is to dig deep and take one game at a time.”
Monday was also a bitter-sweet occasion for the 28-year-old as she became a Banyana centurion. Reflecting on the feat she said it was an honour.
“I wouldn’t say I celebrated my 100th cap,” added Motlhalo.
“But I always say I’m always grateful to be representing the country, and I feel honoured to be part of the elite group. “
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