Andile Dlamini reflects on Banyana Banyana's historic FIFA Women’s World Cup
By Kate Nokwe
14th September 2023
Reflecting on the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand last month, Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Andile Dlamini was always convinced they would advance to the knockouts rounds.
South Africa, ranked 54th at the time, defied the odds by finishing ahead of 14th-ranked Italy and Argentina in 29th position, along with world number-two Sweden, who went on to win the bronze medal.
Speaking to SABC Sport, after collecting Banyana's Team of the Year Award at the 2023 Gsport Awards, the Athlete of the Year said the team's exploits in 2022 proved what they are capable of.
"I'm not surprised because [2022 Women's] AFCON showed the class that we have in South Africa – we showed class at AFCON," said Dlamini.
"We showed who we were, the unity, the unbreakable attitude of playing in front of a crowd that's not yours and shutting it down – that shows class.
"When we went to the World Cup, I knew we were going to go to the last 16 because it's also my jersey number, which is a blessed number."
The 2023 Momentum Athlete of the Year goes to Banyana Banyana and Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies goalkeeper, Andile Dlamini, whose impact as an ambassador and player is undeniable!! Congratulations, Andile!! #gsport18 #SheOwnsHerSuccess #PowerOfRecognition @SAFA_net @Banyana_Banyana pic.twitter.com/xVLWxuPzHQ
— gsport4girls (@gsport4girls) September 12, 2023
Despite not playing a single minute on the field during the campaign Down Under, Dlamini was the team’s biggest cheerleader and urged sponsors not to overlook the country's growing interest in women's sports.
"I was very excited because we made history, not only in women's football but in football – no [South African senior] team has ever went to the last 16 [at a World Cup], but we did, so cheers to women's football," she added.
"And cheers to all the sponsors that came on board – Sasol, Hollywoodbets, Shield SA. Just bring in all the sponsors. Come and sponsor women's football, you will never regret because you'll find incredible women that will push your brand even higher."
