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Leandra Smeda has admitted being heartbroken that a potential return to Banyana Banyana appears to have slipped through her fingers despite a resurgence.
The 39-year-old had hoped her outstanding haul of 22 goals – coupled with sweeping the league’s top individual honours [Hollywoodbets Super League top scorer and Player of the Season] – would reignite national team interest and catch the attention of coach Desiree Ellis.
Speaking on Metro FM’s Sports Night Amplified with Andile Ncube, Smeda said she believed she had done enough to warrant serious consideration for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
"I was surprised and also disappointed. I think I did enough throughout the season to earn a call-up, but I guess the coach didn't feel that way. I feel like she could've called me up and then cut me in camp if I wasn't good enough. She could've seen what I had to offer and then make a decision based on my performance in camp," said Smeda
The TS Galaxy striker revealed that she’s not spoken to Ellis in almost seven years but is aware the coach was monitoring her form in that period.
Smeda, who is sitting on a century of caps for Banyana, believes she would make a major contribution to the team if selected – especially ahead of a WAFCON that doubles up as a FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The veteran forward admits it’s not in a footballer’s nature to ask coaches about their non-selection, hence she has to be at peace with her exclusion.
"After this squad announcement, I don't see them calling me up because you name 38 players and don't even include the top goal scorer or Player of the Season. I feel like she could've still called me up to camp and then cut me there."
