Bonolo Mokoma heartbroken after Basetsana miss out on U20 World Cup

Basetsana were eliminated from the African qualifiers following a 1-0 second-leg defeat to Ghana at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, bringing their World Cup dream to an end after a 2-2 draw in the first leg. 

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mokoma said the squad takes collective responsibility for the loss and will use the setback as motivation to come back stronger. 

"This is a team sport. We work together, we do everything together, and we all take the defeat together. It’s a very hard pill to swallow because who wouldn’t want to go to the World Cup," said Mokoma. 

"I’m feeling numb right now. I don’t know what to say or how to feel about missing out, but one thing is for sure, once the numbness is gone, I will be hurt and probably mad."

READ: Ex-Banyana star urges backing for Hollywoodbets Super League 

The 18-year-old also reflected on what she believes gave Ghana the edge over the two legs. 

“In the first leg, Ghana had the advantage of playing at home. They had the support and were able to stay calm and play their game, while we were a bit nervous," she added. 

"In the second leg, they didn’t lose hope. They came very strong. We were relaxed but also strong, however, it seems like it wasn’t enough."

Mokoma will now shift her focus to the senior national team setup as she joins the Banyana Banyana squad in Polokwane ahead of the COSAFA Women’s Championship. 

Despite the disappointment, she says she is working on staying mentally strong. 

“Mentally, I’m trying to stay strong, but I won’t lie, it’s very hard. Seeing my teammates crying all the way back to the hotel really hurt me. 

"But I believe I’ll be okay. I’m taking it one day at a time and slowly shifting my focus to Banyana. I’m not rushing it because if I rush, I won’t heal properly from this,” she expressed.