In the contest towards the 2024 CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament, women’s football finds itself at the centre of the world stage.
On the trajectory of victory, Banyana Banyana, Senior Women’s South African Football team, once again made their nation proud when they sealed the deal against DR Congo at the Orlando Stadium on Monday. They proudly earned their place in the third round of the 2024 CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
“We knew at home that we needed to take charge of the game, Andile Dlamini made a great save in the beginning that kept us in. They had one or two half chances but so did we,” said Coach Desiree Ellis, “We made sure that we did not concede, and this was also key. I said, if we don’t concede we will create chances, which we did.”
For South Africa, the ongoing victory of Banyana Banyana does not only declare an upward trajectory in sporting excellence, but contains a great message of encouragement to a nation still suffering from gender inequalities. It is a signpost to women around the globe to rise in their God-given calling and vocation within their respective communities and industries.
Sexism in women’s sports is a persistent problem that hinders the progress and equality of women athletes. Despite some progress in the recognition and visibility of women’s sports, prejudice and gender stereotypes continue to have a negative influence on the perception of women in sports. Sexist comments and unjustified criticism of women athletes’ performances persist, helping to devalue their achievements and talents.
While the European Commission is monitoring the situation closely, the world’s eyes are often shut to the impact of women’s sports in society. The European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) was commissioned in 2018 by the Council of Europe to collect data on gender equality and sport in the EU Member States and check whether countries are applying the quota policy established in 2022.
For more news on Banyana Banyana and all national teams, visit www.safa.net and follow Banyana Banyana on all Social Media platforms.
Zoé Pillay – Safe Cities Media
Photo provided: SAFA
For the prosperity of the nation!