1 December 2017 – Banyana Banyana captain Janine van Wyk has sent her good luck wishes to the South African U17 Women’s National Team (Bantwana), who take on Botswana in the first leg of a 2018 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier that will take place this afternoon (Friday, 1 December 2017) at the Lobatse Sports Complex in Botswana.

Kickoff is at 15h00.

Bantwana left South Africa on Wednesday, 29 November and held their one and only training session in Botswana on Thursday, 30 November.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish the girls the best of luck in their crucial match against Botswana. The U17 level is the start of what could a bright future for you, so go out there and do the best you can. The World Cup is the most prestigious tournament in any level of the national team and I believe you stand a very good chance of starting your careers on a high. Do yourselves and the country proud,” said Van Wyk.

Banyana Banyana striker Jermaine Seoposenwe echoed Van Wyk’s sentiments. Now based in the USA, she was part of the South African U17 Women’s National Team that qualified for the World Cup in Trinidad and Tobago – the only women’s national team to participate in the world spectacle.

“I just want to wish you the best of luck for your upcoming World Cup qualifier, I am confident you girls will do well. Just play with heart, determination and passion and the result will follow. Also, this will truly be one of the greatest experiences you will ever be a part of, so try and make it last as long as you can but never forget to enjoy the game and have fun because that is what ultimately makes the experience even more memorable. Good luck again,” said Seoposenwe from the USA.

“Not many people get to play in a world cup, and by qualifying for the tournament you will be entering your names in the history books – but just take it one game at a time and don’t look too far ahead as that might destabilize your plans.”

Bantwana are expected to return to South Africa on Saturday, 1 December.

The second leg is scheduled for Saturday, 16 December 2017 at the Dobsonville Stadium.

Kickoff is at 15h00.

The 2018 FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup will take place in Uruguay.