Rising star Adrielle Mibe eyes WAFCON glory with Banyana Banyana

At just 18 years old, Mibe recently scored her first goal for the national team in their 3-2 win against Botswana at the Three Nations Series.

While she’s excited to be cementing her place in the squad, she knows there’s still a lot of work ahead.

"Honestly I do, I feel like the hard work is paying off but I realise that I still have a lot to learn, a lot to improve on and consistently playing is helping me improve a lot, so I'm grateful for that," Mibe said.

READ: Court battle looming as Marumo Gallants line up litigation

Surrounded by seasoned stars in the Banyana setup, like Jermaine Seoposenwe and captain Refiloe Jane, who’s back from injury, Mibe continues to grow in confidence.

At club level, she also plays alongside top talents such as the Shamase twins, Thubelihle and Siphelele, and forward Ayesha Moosa.

She acknowledges the invaluable support and mentorship of these senior players.

"They've influenced my game in a positive way. They will never make me feel down, they always motivate me. Before the game, during training sessions, telling me 'Adrielle, you made a mistake this is how you are supposed to do it',” she added.

“So, I'm happy because it makes me feel at peace knowing that I can make a mistake and they will correct me. Also, knowing it's comfortable that they are happy for me to be here and it's good."

With just over 20 days to go until the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off in Morocco, Mibe, affectionately known as Adri, has made the preliminary squad named by coach Ellis.

She reflects on what it would mean to represent South Africa at her first major tournament.

"It's gonna mean the world, I really love presenting the country. It's a great experience for me, it also creates more exposure for me and my football and where I want to be in future with my career. So, I would really love for me to make it."