Andile Dlamini: We need to play to our strengths against Burkina Faso

South Africa are bottom of the group with one point from two matches, while Burkina Faso sit third with three points. 

Dlamini says the team understands the importance of the encounter and is determined to make the nation proud.

“Burkina Faso is not an easy team. They have three points and we have seen how they play. But we know our capabilities, and we want to play to our strengths. We have not played the way we wanted to in the past two matches. We want to do our best, finish strong, qualify for the quarter-finals and make South Africa proud,” said Dlamini.

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The South African senior women’s national team will be chasing their first win of the tournament after opening with a 2-1 defeat to Tanzania before fighting back from two goals down to earn a 2-2 draw against Ivory Coast.

Dlamini says the team remains focused on executing the game plan and knows there is no room for error.

“We just need to apply what the coach has planned. We did not have an easy start to this tournament, but we have approached every game with the respect it deserves. Going forward, we want to make sure that we win. Against Burkina Faso, we cannot afford to lose or settle for a draw. We know it is a must-win match,” added Dlamini.

The 33-year-old goalkeeper also expressed her gratitude to South Africans for their continued support throughout the tournament.

“I would like to thank South Africans for supporting us since the tournament started. We want to make all of you proud in the match against Burkina Faso,” she expressed.