×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Mulaudzi call-up a boost for Banyana ahead of friendlies

Rhoda Mulaudzi during Banyana training session. / BackpagePix /Sydney Mahlangu
Rhoda Mulaudzi during Banyana training session. / BackpagePix /Sydney Mahlangu

Revenge and testing their readiness ahead of their maiden Fifa World Cup are possibly what Banyana Banyana hope for in their international friendly against the Netherlands at Cape Town Stadium tomorrow (3pm).

The last time these two nations locked horns, the Netherlands emerged victorious, dispatching SA 2-0 in a friendly back in 2007.

Banyana play in their first ever World Cup in France from June 7 to July 7.

Banyana got a boost from the return of in-form striker Rhoda Mulaudzi. The Canberra United star was surprisingly omitted for the Africa Women's Cup of Nations (Awcon), where SA finished as runners-up.

"It's been a year-and-a-half [since a Banyana call-up]. It's amazing to be back, playing for the national team is an honour," said Mulaudzi, who has scored four goals in 10 matches in Australia since making the move last August.

Three days after facing "Oranjeleeuwinnen" [Orange Lionesses], Banyana clash with Sweden at the same venue in another international friendly. Mulaudzi, 29, emphasised the significance of both matches.

"It's important for us to win both games. These games will determine how ready we are for the World Cup. After watching all the teams' Afcon games, I think the team has improved a lot.

"We must give our all against these countries because they are the best."

The match against the Netherlands is the inaugural Winnie Mandela International Challenge, while the Sweden one is the Albertina Sisulu Centenary Challenge.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.