Sundowns WAFCON-winning star rejoins cross-town arch-rivals
A Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies midfielder has rejoined cross-town arch-rivals after a few weeks of training with the club.
The midfield maestro was part of the Banyana Banyana team that won the 2022 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations [WAFCON].
The University of Pretoria have confirmed the return of Banyana star Thalea Smidt on loan from the Hollywoodbets Super League defending champions, Sundowns.
The 25-year-old footballer previously studied and played for Tuks before signing for the red-hot Brazilians in 2021.
Smidt, who is the former AmaTuks captain, will “once again dawn the Candy Stripe” jersey for the remainder of the 2023 season.
‘IT FEELS VERY GOOD TO BE BACK’
“It feels very good, I have been here before. So, coming back wasn’t difficult for me because I know the culture of the club,” said Smidt on her unveiling.
“It’s been a good few weeks with the team. Good bunch of girls and has great energy. It feels lovely to be back. I always say Tuks is home.”
WHY THALEA SMIDT RETURNED TO TUKS FROM MAMELODI SUNDOWNS LADIES
“To be honest, I joined the team to add value and come to play and give my expertise to the team,” she added.
“Also, learning from the coach, technical team and the players. And just doing my best each and every opportunity I get.
“I want to help the team yield positive results as well, try to yield positive energy to the players, and that’s the main objective.”
One can say that the move came at the right time for Smidt, who will be hoping to cement her place in the Banyana squad for the upcoming 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The player has been lacking some game time at Banyana Ba Style, and that might have influenced the loan move, as she can’t afford to miss out on the World Cup.
The World Cup will be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand from July 20 until August 20.
RELATED STORY: Thalea Smidt full of praise for Sundowns’ short turnaround