Mbane discloses why Banyana will be motivated to defend WAFCON title

Photo Credit - Mamelodi Sundowns.

Banyana Banyana defender Bambanani Mbane has explained why the South African women’s national team will head to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) fully motivated to defend their crown in Morocco.

The 15th edition of the biennial African women's football tournament organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), will be staged between July 5 to 26 with Banyana pooled in Group C alongside Ghana, Mali and Tanzania.

“This upcoming WAFCON is more special than any other WAFCON tournament I have participated in. Every top African team will be looking for a win against Banyana, and we know it will be tough,” said Mbane as quoted by SABC Sports.

“But what I like is that we are coming in as the defending champions, and that alone gives us enough motivation to get there and do what we do best.”

Looking ahead of the tournament, Mbane said: “I am grateful for the support I have received from my family, my wife and Mamelodi Sundowns – they are the reason I find myself where I am now.

“One thing about me, I work very hard, I knew that I wanted to play again. So it makes me emotional that I am back in the national team and getting ready for WAFCON.”

Banyana will kick off their campaign against Black Queens of Ghana at Honor Stadium on July 17.