Veteran Sundowns Ladies defender Bambanani ‘Juice’ Mbane has expressed her excitement to be back in action following the serious injury she sustained against the Netherlands at last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Masandawana center-back delivered a strong performance in the Hollywoodbets Super League fixture against the University of the Western Cape (UWC) Ladies. Speaking after the game, Juice, who was making her second appearance of the season, stated what it meant to be back in the squad.
“It is a great feeling to be back. The journey was not easy, as the injury I sustained could have affected my mental health, but I had a strong support system and that helped my recovery. I feel genuinely happy to be making my second appearance of the season and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the team once again. My focus now is on staying fit, performing consistently and helping the team achieve our goals for the season,” Mbane stated.
Despite losing the game 1-0, Bambanani believes Banyana Ba Style are prepared to bounce back as quickly as possible.
“Playing away against UWC is always challenging due to their smaller pitch, which is different from what we are used to. However, despite the difficulties we faced, we learned a couple of lessons and we are collectively determined to correct them in our next game. Just because we lost in Cape Town does not mean we are discouraged. Our minds are already focused on the next fixture and we are eager to deliver an improved performance.
After four games played, Sundowns Ladies remain top of the Hollywoodbets Super League table, having secured 9 points from their first four games. The Brazilians have scored 11 goals and conceded just four times.
Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies will now turn their attention to the next fixture – a clash against Durban Ladies FC at Lucas Moripe Stadium, scheduled for Sunday, March 24, 2024.
