Banyana Banyana forward Thembi Kgatlana experienced the ecstasy of a Woman of the Match accolade in South Africa’s 1-0 win against Botswana in their final fixture of Group C, but also the agony of picking up what looked like a nasty injury.
Kgatlana needed to be carried to a television interview on the back of a technical team member, with plenty of strapping around her ankle.
She now has an anxious wait to see the outcome of a scan on the injury she picked up against a plucky Botswana.
“I have a sprain. I hope I will recover well and I hope it is not a serious injury,” Kgatlana said after the game.
The striker said the Woman of the Match accolade “means a lot to me”.
“It is a source of pride, but it is team work that is most important. All the players played well today. We have been able to stay organized, work with a good team spirit and remain united,” said Kgatlana.
Still sporting her trademark smile, despite the injury and the tough match against, Kgatlana was relieved Banyana could score the match winner in the final 10 minutes of the game.
“We tried to create some opportunities and the coach told us that we had to be patient. The match against Nigeria was different. We have teammates who are a good mix of players who play abroad and local players. I think we have a great team, we know how to adapt,” said Kgatlana.
As a tense quarter final awaits which holds the key to their FIFA Women’s World Cup fate, they will need all their experience and skill to keep progressing in the tournament.
Source: CAFonline.com
