14 July 2017 – Acting head coach of the South African U17 Women’s National Team, Simphiwe “Shorty” Dludlu, has heaped praise on the improved performance displayed by the girls on the second day of the squad’s selection camp currently underway at SAFA’s Technical Centre in Johannesburg.
The former Banyana Banyana star, who also holds a UEFA B License coaching badge, said that the improved performance is a result of the girls being more comfortable with one another, which allows them to be more relaxed on the field.
“Day 2 was really productive on the field. We saw the girls starting to come out of their shells and play more, which is a sign that they are beginning to know each other and even become friends. We had to two productive sessions just to test their endurance and I must admit things went very well,” said Dludlu.
The talented crop of players representing Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and North West are competing for a place in the final squad that will play in the qualifiers to represent the country at the 2018 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup set to take place in Uruguay in from 20 November to 13 December.
The first phase of the selection camp will conclude on Friday, 14 July with the next phase set to take place soon after the technical team visits the four remaining provinces.
The 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be held in Uruguay from 20 November to 13 December 2018.