Banyana Banyana stalwart makes major decision on her career
Banyana Banyana defence stalwart Janine van Wyk has made a decision on her football career. Van Wyk, who has been capped 183 times, recently missed out on the FIFA Women’s Cup due to an injury.
The 36-year-old is set to return to the national team set up for the 2024 CAF Women’s Olympic qualifiers against DR Congo this month. In a joint statement by SAFA and Van Wyk on Monday, it has been revealed that the matches will be her last as a professional player.
JANINE VAN WYK ANNOUNCES DECISION ON HER FOOTBALL CAREER
“This has been by far one of the hardest decisions of my life,” said Van Wyk.
“This decision has always been one I have wanted to make on my terms. This is my time to say goodbye to football as a player while I watch the next generation.
“It has been my greatest honour and privilege to play this beautiful game, in particular playing for my Country, which has and always will be the greatest gift football has ever offered me,” she said.
BANYANA BANYANA COACH DESIRE ELLIS PAYS TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND
Banyana coach Desiree Ellis is set to announce her squad for the qualifiers in the coming days. Both the matches will be used as a send-off for Van Wyk. If she features in both games, Van Wyk will become the most capped player, male or female, in Africa. Ahmed Hassan is currently the most capped player [Male and female] with 184 caps for the Egypt national team.
Ellis has described Van Wyk as a legend of the game and an absolute role model.
“There are so many superlatives that I can use to describe Janine. I think she’s an absolute legend of the game, not just in South Africa, but also on the African continent as well as globally,” said Ellis.
“She has led the team at the Olympic Games and the World Cup and She has given her all every time she has stepped onto the field. She loved representing this national team and has always played with her heart on her sleeve.
“She’s an absolute role model to all the kids out there. And I wish her everything the best in her new adventure. I pray that she’s just as successful as her career was. Many blessings to her,” she added.
“She has also created opportunities for others with the club JVW. I’m wishing her once again all the best and blessings in her new adventure.”
Banyana will face DR Congo on 25 October in the first leg away from home. They will host the same side a few days later.
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