FC Fleury 91 striker Ode Fulutudilu says Banyana Banyana’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup group is “fair” and believes that the side can progress to the knockout phase.
Desiree Ellis’ charges secured a place in the World finals due be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand next year following their successful Africa Women’s Cup of Nations [WAFCON] journey held in Morocco three months ago.
Banyana went on to win their first-ever WAFCON title as they defeated the hosts Morocco 2-1 in the tournament’s finals.
South Africa are pitted in Group G alongside Sweden, Italy and Argentina. A group that many people feels is too strong for Banyana to come out alive.
However, Fulutudilu is content that the Banyana can pull a shocker and advance to the next round, as their group can be fairly contested despite having the likes of Sweden in it.
The talented frontwoman was part of the Banyana squad that participated in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup which was held in France.
FULUTUDILU SPEAKS…
“Honestly, I think Banyana Banyana can get out of the group. Obviously in that group, one can say Sweden would take the number one given the fact that they are Sweden [one of the top nations]. But even with that, I think that group is not like a group of death, it can be anyone’s game,” Fulutudilu told FARPost.
“Yes, Sweden are a good team overall but they can be downed. For example, when we had Germany and Spain in our last World Cup, we gave it our best shot against Spain as we almost pulled off something unbelievable.
“For me, I feel like whoever turns up on the day can even take the first or second place.
“So, I don’t see any reason why Banyana cannot get out of that group.”
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