Safa claim dangerous Turkey trip vital for Banyana's World Cup preparation

South Africa are participating in the Women’s Turkish Cup during a dangerous period, with an earthquake claiming more than 45 000 lives to date. Despite initial doubts, Banyana left the country on Tuesday, and Motlanthe says they made the trip after getting the go-ahead from the world football governing body and the organisers.

"Before the earthquake happened, we received an invite from Turkey, which the Technical Director (Walter Steenbok) and coach (Desiree Ellis) discussed and felt it was a good thing to do. Then we engaged with the organisers and they said it's safe to come. Fifa also said it's safe to come that's why Zambia went there as well. So, we have done due diligence in ensuring the safety," he claimed.

Furthermore, Motlanthe insisted Banyana need this trip to prepare for the Fifa Women’s World Cup in July.

Concerns over the tournament persisted when hosts withdrew, citing insensitivity. Turkey’s withdrawal was immediately followed by South American representatives Venezuela, who were in Banyana's group. Venezuela were the ideal test for South Africa who will face another South American team Argentina at the World Cup in Australia/New Zealand.

"People are asking why we had to go while people are mourning, at the end of the day we had to make a choice because the coach had to prepare. Plan B was to look for other opponents and as you know, teams engaged way ahead. It was difficult to get an opponent we wrote to many federations, but we did not get an opponent. Imagine a situation where Zambia goes to Turkey to prepare and South Africa doesn't," he added.

Banyana play their first game in the Turkish Women’s Cup against Uzbekistan in Antalya on Saturday and Motlanthe says the team has settled in Turkey. 

"They haven't had any challenges and we hope that they will play the two friendlies and that will afford the coach the time she wanted to deal with the team," he concluded.

Banyana will also face Slovenia next Tuesday.