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Downs Ladies’ Smidt humbled by Banyana call-up

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies midfielder Thalea Smidt was at a loss for words when she received the news that she had been selected to represent Banyana Banyana.

Smidt, 25, earned her first Banyana call-up after helping Sundowns win the treble, including the Caf Women’s Champions League last campaign – playing a vital role in central midfield.

Banyana will take on Zambia in an international friendly on 12 February in Lusaka as part of their preparations for their last round of African Women’s Cup of Nations qualifiers against Algeria.

Desiree Ellis’ troops will host Algeria at home on 18 February 2022 at a venue yet to be confirmed before travelling to North Africa for the return leg scheduled for 23 February 2022.

The Sundowns playmaker, in line for a possible Banyana debut, has played for the South African under-20 side and the South African student’s team.

“I’m truly humbled and honoured to get a chance to be called to the senior national team to represent my country,” said Smidt.

“It’s an honour & privilege to represent my country. May God continue to work through me. That’s all I can say.”

Meanwhile, Antonia Maponya of the University of Western Cape (UWC Ladies) was also added to Banyana’s 25-woman squad for the first time after an impressive season in the Hollywood Super League.

“I’m excited to be given the opportunity to showcase my talent at the national level and to represent my country. It’s a privilege that I’ll forever be grateful for, and I sincerely appreciate,” she said.

Banyana will report for camp on Friday. “We have decided to call up local players for the first round of camp to ensure that our database continues to grow and that any newly selected players find their rhythm now,” said Ellis.

“This is to give new players the know-how in case they are needed in subsequent matches.”

Banyana Banyana 25-Player Squad:

GOALKEEPERS:

Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns), Kaylin Swart (JVW), Regirl Ngobeni (University of Western Cape)
Karabo Mohale GK (University of Johannesburg).

DEFENDERS:

Antonia Maponya,(University of Western Cape), Koketso Tlailane  (Tshwane University of Technology), Karabo Makhurubetshi (Mamelodi Sundowns), Janine van Wyk (JVW), Tiisetso Makhubela (Tshwane University of Technology, Bambanani Mbane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Asanda Hadebe (Sunflower), Bongeka Gamede (University of Western Cape).

MIDFIELDERS:

Gabriela Salgado (JVW), Noxolo Cesane (University of Western Cape), Thalea Smidt (Mamelodi Sundowns, Mamello Makhabane (JVW), Robyn Moodaly (JVW), Sibulele Holweni (University of Western Cape), Oratile Mokwena (Mamelodi Sundowns).

STRIKERS:

Lelona Daweti (Mamelodi Sundowns), Hildah Magaia (Clubless), Melinda Kgadiete (Mamelodi Sundowns), Wendy Shongwe (University of Pretoria), Nthabiseng Majiya (Richmond Ladies), Rhoda Mulaudzi (Mamelodi Sundowns).

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