Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis is happy with the enthusiasm and commitment shown by her players ahead of their clash against the United States in the first international friendly match at the TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, at 01:30am on Friday.
Thereafter, Banyana will clash against the Americans in a second friendly match, which is scheduled for Soldier Field, Chicago, at 23h30.
“Look, the first day is always a difficult day, especially after a long travel. But I think we had a good night. Everybody looked really enthusiastic and excited to be together again, to be playing again,” Ellis said.
“It’s extremely hot, not the weather we are used to. But I thought we’ve done very well. We always knew that this game was gonna come very soo after the World Cup.”
This is going to be Banyana’s first match since they bombed out in the last-16 of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
With some players failing to make the trip after encountering visa challenges, Ellis will make do with the 21 players she has in camp.
“The players that are here, we’re just hoping no one gets injured. I see the enthusiasm, I see the commitment, I see the willingness to play,” she said.
