Andile Dlamini shares experience of playing in Turkey amid earthquake aftermath

Banyana Banyana co-captain Andile Dlamini has shared her experience of playing in Turkey amid the earthquake aftermath. 

Desiree Ellis‘ charges returned to the country on Thursday, 23 February 2023 in the morning.

The 2022 CAF Africa Women’s Cup of Nations [WAFCON] champions were crowned the Turkish Women’s Cup Group A winners on Wednesday.

South Africa traveled to participate in the competition when Turkey had just experienced a traumatic earthquake.

The earthquake left many people injured and thousands of lives lost. 

The trip went ahead after SAFA had consultations with the tournament organisers, South African government and Turkish Ambassador. 

ANDILE DLAMINI SHARES HER EXPERIENCES 

“Honestly speaking, mentally were strong about going to Turkey because we wanted to achieve what we achieved,” Dlamini told the media on their arrival at the OR Tambo International Airport. 

“We are just sad that there were lives lost. But, for us soccer players, it wasn’t really mentally tough as it was preparing us because we are looking at the bigger picture.

“Nevertheless, we had faith that we gonna come back alive and here we are.”

The tournament was part of Banyana’s preparation for this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.

TURKEY TRIP A SUCCESS  

“It was a successful trip, we played two fantastic games and I think they are good games for our preparations. And just to see where we are at and where we need to improve,” she added. 

The Women’s World Cup will take place in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 until August 20.

Ellis and her troops will now go back to the drawing board to see what they can improve.

With the World Cup is fast approaching, Banyana will continue with their preparations for the eagerly-awaited World Cup in the next international break in April.

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