9 November 2018 – Bantwana’s U17 FIFA World Cup preparations have been hit by a few injuries which sees defender Yenzokuhle Ngubane sit out at training on Thursday, 8 November.
The tough as teak defender sustained a knock in the friendly match against Uruguay in which the South African U17 women’s team lost 3-0 in Montevideo, however the team doctor Monica Molatlhegi is confident she will be ready in time for the tournament opener.
“Yenzo sustained an ankle injury after she stepped wrongly but we are addressing the matter. She has what we call an effusion and we are treating it with antibiotics and analgesia. We recommended 72 hours of rest and the physiotherapist is doing her best to make sure she can resume full training with the rest of the squad soon,” said Dr. Molatlhegi.
Midfielder Oratile Mokwena and forward Miche Minnes are also carrying injuries from the Uruguay friendly but participated in the team’s full training session and according to the doctor the two players’ injuries are nothing to be alarmed about as they should be available for the opening match against Mexico.
“Miche and Oratile suffered ankle injuries and tight hamstrings which foam-rolled and also needled them to relax the muscles. We are just monitoring closely with the team’s physiotherapist making sure that they do the correct stretches and drink a lot of water,” added Dr. Molatlhegi.
Goalkeeper Leigh Brophy is back in full training and looking sharp having recovered from an ankle injury sustained while in camp.