Banyana Banyana are heading home but they have certainly left an impression at this World Cup.
Their players have brought joy with their dancing and singing before and after games, while on the pitch their exciting fast-paced attacking play has entertained fans.
And all this despite a dispute with their national association. South Africa’s players will receive $50,000 (£39,000) each from Fifa for reaching the last 16, but nothing from the South Africa Football Association (SAFA).
Despite this, they have been a joy to watch with their late win over Italy in their final group game sending them into the knockout stage for the first time.
South Africa went toe-to-toe with the Netherlands despite losing Jermaine Seoposenwe and Bambanani Mbane to injury before half-time.
The impressive Kgatlana has caused huge problems with her pace at this World Cup, scoring twice and assisting another two goals, and she was once again dangerous against the Netherlands. The 27-year-old had five of South Africa’s seven attempts on target in this match but found herself frustrated by Van Domselaar.
Will Banyana Banyana be back in 2027? “As a group we need to hold our heads up high,” said manager Desiree Ellis.
“When we reached the last 16 the whole country went crazy and I’m expecting them to go crazy when we get back as well.
“The whole of South Africa should be very proud of this team.” Ellis had a message to the government and sponsors to step up if women’s football in the country is to push on.
“To the sponsors: I don’t know how you can ignore something special like this,” she added. “What this team has achieved, the corporate world needs to stand up and really take notice and be counted.” bbc
