Banyana Banyana are now cleared to participate in the Turkish Women’s Cup as they left South Africa on Tuesday.
The African champions’ trip to Turkey was delayed because of the earthquake that hit Syria and Turkey last week.
Speaking to the media last week, SAFA chief operating officer Lydia Monyepao said they were communicating with the department of international relations and cooperation (Dirco) for guidance.
However, Entertainment SA Sport has gathered the team coached by Desiree Ellis has jetted out of the country and SAFA has issued a statement.
“Coach Desiree Ellis and members of her technical team were set to travel from OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, to Antalya, Turkey, with 16 local-based players on Tuesday night,” said the football governing body.
“The overseas-based players (seven players) will join the camp in Antalya on Wednesday.
“The South African senior women’s team will open their Turkish Women’s Cup account when they face Uzbekistan on Saturday.
“The South African Football Association (SAFA) consulted widely before allowing Banyana Banyana to travel to Turkey. This follows the devastating earthquake that left thousands dead and many more injured or missing in Turkey and neighbouring Syria a few days ago.
“World football governing body FIFA also gave the green light to the tournament in a letter sent to all the participants on 10 February 2023. The participating teams are Bulgaria, Estonia, Kosovo, Hong Kong, Jordan, North Macedonia, Slovenia, South Africa, Uzbekistan, and Zambia.”
Entertainment SA reported that as the South African women’s national team was set to jet off to Turkey, their plans were on hold due to the earthquake.
The earthquake has reportedly killed at least 5000 people as it hit parts of Turkey and Syria this week and the South African Football Association can’t take risks as yet.
The team will use the games against Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Venezuela as part of crucial preparation for the 2023 Women’s World Cup in New Zealand and Australia in July and August.
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