As Sasol Banyana Banyana gather for their final camp of the year, defender Bambanani Mbane reflects on the atmosphere within the squad, the lessons of a challenging year, and the significance of facing an ever-improving Morocco.
With several new players joining the team, the camp has taken on an added sense of evaluation and growth. “The atmosphere is good. You can see everyone is working towards the same goal,” she says. With the year coming to a close and a number of new faces in the group, the technical team can use this camp as a chance to assess where the team stands. “This final camp allows us to see how far we are as a team and to improve where we need to get better.”
Sharpening the Defensive Line
As an experienced leader in defence, Mbane keeps her intentions clear. “For me, keeping a clean sheet just makes my job easier,” she laughs, “but sometimes that’s hard.” Despite the challenges, she and the backline have been focused on strengthening their structure and communication, especially with newer players learning the system. “The defence is always working hard. We set goals for each match, we work together, and we advise each other.”
A difficult year with lessons to carry forward
Looking back on 2025, Mbane is honest about the team’s struggles. “Honestly, the team’s growth this year was bad because we were not consistent, something was lacking,” she says. Tough qualifiers, including a physically demanding tie against the DRC, tested the team’s resilience. “Yhoo, the DRC were very physical and strong. But I’m glad we managed to qualify under those circumstances. I’m still proud of the squad.”
She believes the key to turning things around next year lies in building consistency match after match. “If we can be consistent in our performances, we can be a better team.”
Mbane entered this camp with a clear mindset and personal ambition. “I wanted to perform better than in the previous camp and to keep a clean sheet like we did last time.” Her leadership continues to be grounded in preparation and discipline. “I just try to stay consistent and work closely with my teammates. We push each other.”
Morocco: A Real Test for the Team
Tuesday night’s match against Morocco is one that Mbane is approaching with respect and excitement. “It’s going to be a tough one because they’re a good and consistent team,” she says. With several new players in the Banyana squad, the international offers an ideal benchmark. “I’m happy that we’re playing against them, just to weigh ourselves and see how far we are as a team with the new faces we have.”
Morocco’s strengths are clear to her. “Their passing, movement off the ball, and counter-attacks… Yoh!” she says. Still, she believes Banyana Banyana’s priority should be sticking to their own identity. “We need to focus on our own strengths because we know how good we are. We just need to play our own game.”
For Mbane, finishing the year in national colours remains deeply meaningful. “Representing my country is always an honour, and I will forever be grateful for that.”
She ends with a heartfelt message to supporters: “Please keep supporting Banyana Banyana, we need you more than ever.”
