Andile Dlamini looks forward to a confident display against Algeria

The South African women’s national team is currently camped in Durban and set to take on the North African side in two friendlies on 14 and 17 April - as part of their preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Dlamini believes maintaining defensive discipline while being clinical in front of goal will be key if Banyana are to secure positive results against a strong Algerian outfit.

"I believe that it is up to us to believe in ourselves and our strengths. Right now, the only thing we shouldn't allow is conceding. When you don't concede you win games.

"We also need to make sure that when we are in front of goal that we convert and dominate the game. 

"Slowly but surely we will get to the top, which for us is having a professional league."

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The experienced shot-stopper adds that the two matches will offer both teams a valuable opportunity to assess their squads and build cohesion ahead of the continental showpiece.

"I think with the WAFCON delay it actually gives us more time to prepare, and facing Algeria twice at home is great preparation for WAFCON. 

"We have players that played in COSAFA and players that didn't, so now we want to gel and see where we are at."

The 33-year-old describes Algeria as a tactically disciplined side and expects a challenging encounter that will provide a meaningful measure of Banyana’s progress.

Dlamini also welcomes the opportunity to play in Durban, highlighting the importance of engaging with supporters across different provinces and strengthening the team’s connection with its fanbase.

"Playing in a different province is just amazing and the atmosphere has been great. It shows that South Africa has Banyana Banyana in their hands and they actually want to support Banyana Banyana."