Banyana star Motlhalo in high spirits ahead of World Cup opener

Ahead of the FIFA World Cup tie, spirited Banyana Banyana star Linda Motlhalo says winning the CAF African Women’s African Cup of Nations is a morale booster for Banyana.

Banyana will open their FIFA World Cup Group G account against Sweden on Sunday and the talented star midfielder is confident they can cause an upset.

ALSO READ I Banyana’s Matlou ready to represent Mzansi at the World Cup

Mothlalo, currently contracted to Glasgow City in Scotland reveals the challenges of having to settle down in Europe as Banyana are preparing for the World Cup tournament.

As one of the key players in coach Desiree Ellis’ Banyana World Cup squad, the dreadlocked star has challenged her teammates to do better at the global spectacle to be staged in Australia and New Zealand.

BANYANA STAR MOTLHALO IN HIGH SPIRITS AHEAD OF WORLD CUP

Having conquered the African continent, Banyana will be expected to do better at the FIFA World Cup showpiece and their mission is to go beyond the group stages for the first time.

Speaking to SABC Sport, the dribbling wizard Mothlalo is also banking on her teammates’ progress as far as club football is concerned.

“We’ve won the WAFCON and that’s the confidence booster for us,” said the Banyana star.

ALSO READ I Modise warns Banyana coach not to conspire against the players

“The players have been doing well in their teams and coming here with that confidence boosts the team. So, we definitely have to do better this world cup.”

Touching on her European journey as she left Sweden and joined Scottish league winners, Glasgow City, Motlhalo said it was a challenge when she initially arrived.

“The first few months, it was really difficult because of the weather, the language barrier, and the system that they play,” added Motlhalo.

“But as time went on, the coach really helped me a lot and the players as well and I adjusted very well.

ALSO READ I Banyana Banyana Women’s World Cup pay dispute resolved

“The difference between Sweden and Scotland is in Sweden they are more physical and in Scotland it’s not that much you know and they are more of, they play one touch game. I can do that.”

Ellis and her technical bench are busy finetuning their preparations as they will meet their Swedish counterparts on Sunday before facing Argentina and Italy in the group.

DEFENDER MATLOU READY FOR WORLD CUP

ALSO READ I Jordaan admits SAFA should’ve discussed Banyana saga earlier

The South African reported that Banyana star defender Noko Matlou has declared readiness to represent Mzansi at the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup as she partners with Puma.

In a recent interview ahead of the global spectacle in Australia and New Zealand, Matlou talks about playing for Eibar in Spain and being a role model for young girls.

ALSO READ I Banyana star Mbane reveals her World Cup aspirations

With coach Desiree Ellis set to pin her hopes on Matlou’s leadership qualities, she said tactical discipline and awareness are her strong qualities.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY PHUMZILE NGCATSHE