Linda Motlhalo feels honoured ahead of her 100th national team cap

The 28-year-old will become the 13th player to reach the milestone for Banyana Banyana, joining an elite group of centurions that includes Noko Matlou, Janine van Wyk and Refiloe Jane.

The Scotland-based midfielder described the achievement as a moment of reflection after a decade of representing the senior national team.

"Oh man, it is such an honor knowing that I'm going to make my 100th cap. It's an amazing feeling, and it reminds me of my first cap when Coach Vera [Pauw] gave me the opportunity at the age of 17. Now that we're at number 100, it's such an honor. It has been a long journey with a lot of ups and downs, but it's been a beautiful one," said Motlhalo.

READ: Kagisho Dikgacoi counting on overseas experience in Young Africans job

Motlhalo made her Banyana Banyana debut against Cameroon in March 2016 and says she is thankful to have been introduced to international football at a young age, an experience that has played a key role in her development. 

South Africa’s campaign to reclaim the WAFCON title and secure one of Africa’s four qualification spots for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup begins on Monday against Tanzania at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco. Motlhalo says the mood in camp is positive and believes a winning start will provide the perfect platform for the rest of the tournament.

"We played against Tanzania the last time, and we could tell they were really prepared for us. And yes , we are South Africa, and every team that plays us gives 120 percent. But I think we are ready for any team that we're going to face. The first game is the most important one because it sets the tone for the tournament , and we are looking forward to it. The biggest thing is that we're ready."