Banyana Banyana in high spirit ahead of WAFCON title defence

The national team has assembled for camp in Johannesburg for their final preparations before jetting off to defend their title in Morocco, with the continental showpiece taking place in less than two weeks.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mbane says they are aware of the big task ahead and that top teams in Africa will be looking for a win against them.

"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.

"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."

Mbane is one of the key players recently reintegrated into the squad after lengthy injury spells, including her Mamelodi Sundowns teammate Karabo Dhlamini and captain Refiloe Jane. 

She says looking into how far she has come in terms of reclaiming full fitness makes her emotional.

"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," she added.

"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."

The Eastern Cape-born centre-back says she will be donning the green gold at the upcoming continental showpiece to inspire young girls who look up to her.

"You know young kids from Sterkspruit, they really look up to me. There’s a young girl who always tells me that she wants to play for the national team just like me. So, every time I travel the world playing for Banyana, I think of such kids," she shared.

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