The South Africa Women's World Cup team, Banyana Banyana, has sparked controversy by refusing to participate in a warm-up match against Botswana due to concerns over the suitability of the match venue. The team expressed reservations about playing on a surface comprised of clay and grass in the Tsakane township, fearing that it could lead to injuries that would jeopardize their participation in the upcoming World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, scheduled to begin on July 20.
Banyana Banyana had requested a more prestigious venue for their final preparatory game, suggesting either Soccer City in Johannesburg or Orlando Stadium in Soweto. However, their proposal was not accepted, and the match against Botswana proceeded in Tsakane, leaving the players dissatisfied.
In response to the team's decision to boycott the match, football officials hastily assembled a makeshift team comprising players from a local league, including a 13-year-old athlete. The kick-off was delayed by one hour, and Botswana took advantage of the inexperienced Banyana team, securing a commanding 5-0 victory. The defeat against opponents ranked 96 places below South Africa proved to be a significant embarrassment for Banyana, especially considering the players' desire to face stronger opposition prior to the boycott.
An anonymous senior official from the South African Football Association (SAFA) criticized the players, labeling them as "mercenaries" and "traitors." These derogatory comments reflect the escalating tensions surrounding the situation.
In addition to the venue dispute, Banyana Banyana has expressed dissatisfaction with the financial arrangements leading up to the World Cup. While FIFA has committed to providing each player with $30,000 | R 564 687,00 for their participation, the national association, SAFA, has not offered any financial compensation. Consequently, the Banyana players have refused to sign pre-tournament contracts and are demanding an additional $21,000 | R395 285 per player from SAFA.
Gronie Hluyo, the Chief Financial Officer of SAFA, expressed disappointment with the players' demands, deeming them unreasonable. Hluyo emphasized that FIFA's financial commitment exceeds the support provided to previous national teams, including the men's senior national team, Bafana Bafana. For their participation in the 2019 World Cup in France, Banyana Banyana players received a compensation of R20,000 each. Hluyo added that the current financial package is significantly more generous; however, the players remain unsatisfied, according to officials.
As tensions continue to simmer, the Banyana Banyana squad presses on with their preparations for the upcoming World Cup. They are set to face Sweden, Argentina, and Italy in Group G. This dispute sheds light on the challenges faced by women's teams in terms of resources and support, highlighting the need for greater attention and resolution as the sport strives for equality and fair treatment.
