Kgoale could face her idol in Banyana’s two high-profile friendlies
Following SAFA’s announcement that the reigning WAFCON champions Banyana Banyana will play two high-profile friendlies with Brazil, midfielder Nomvula Kgoale could finally face her idol, Marta.
The two friendly matches will be played in South Africa next month. The first match will take place at Orlando Stadium on September 2 (18:00) and then face off in the second encounter three days later at a venue to be confirmed.
In an interview with FARPost a month ago, the 26-year-old footballer revealed the story behind her red lipstick, citing that she draws inspiration from the Brazilian star forward, who also wears red lipstick.
Marta, 36, now holds the record for the most goals (115 goals) in World Cup tournaments for men and women. She has been named FIFA World Player of the Year six times, five of them being consecutive (from 2006 through 2010) and the latest award coming in 2018.
“The lipstick story has been going on for quite some time now. I think many people are noticing it now because of the video. To be honest with you, I love lipstick. I mean, other ladies in the Hollywoodbets Super League wear lipstick. Even Marta from Brazil wears lipstick when she goes in the field of play,” said Kgoale.
Banyana mentor Desiree Ellis expressed her excitement about facing the Copa América Femenina champions in the two much-awaited friendlies.
“This is amazing. You know, immediately after the WAFCON last month, SAFA said they would give us the best possible preparation for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand,” the three-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year told SAFA media.
“What more could we ask for? A powerhouse, not just in women’s football but also in men’s football.
“Brazil are the champions of Copa America, a powerhouse. What a way to start preparing for the World Cup, what a way to start off our campaign. We want to say thank you to SAFA, and we want to say thank you to SASOL. They have always been true to their word, and we look forward to playing Brazil and whatever is to come after.”
Both sides have already booked their tickets for the FIFA Women’s World Cup due to take place in Australia and New Zealand next year.
Meanwhile, Nozipho Mbatha, SASOL Senior Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorship, added: “We know our African Champions will represent the country with pride. They have demonstrated their hunger and resilience in the past few months, and we are confident they will continue to display the same demeanour that says ‘nothing is impossible’. We implore the team to have fun while showing off their talent on the field like the champs they are.”