Banyana were left utterly disappointed with the standard of the pitch at the venue that had clay and grass trapped all over it. Their greatest concern was believing that if they play on the scattered pitch, it might cause them injuries and spoil their chances to take part in the World Cup staged in Australia and New Zealand (20 July-20 August). They also wanted to play at one of the top football venues such as Soccer City or Orlando Stadium for their final preparation match before heading to Oceania.
In desperate attempts to honour the fixture, a list of other few players participating in the local league, were called up to replace the enraged Banyana squad. The youngest of the participants was 13 years old. However Botswana edged out their inexperienced opponents an embarrassing 5-0.
According to reports, Banyana were unhappy with pre-tournament contracts, demanding each player to get at least $21 000 (R395 876) from SAFA but the national association offers nothing to their demands.
“The players are being unreasonable in their demands,” said SAFA chief financial officer Gronie Hluyo.
“What FIFA has committed to giving them is way more than we have committed to any of the national teams previously, including men’s national team, Bafana Bafana,” added Hluyo.
According to reports from players, Banyana will receive $30 000 (R565 537) for each player from FIFA in taking part at the World Cup .
Hluyo mentioned that players were remunerated $1500 (R20 000) each for their participation at the 2019 World Cup in France.
“What they are getting now is way more than that, but they are still not happy,” said Hluyo.
Banyana are set to fly to New Zealand in separate groups of two on Wednesday and Thursday respectively.
World Cup Group G fixtures for Banyana Banyana
- Sweden vs Banyana Banyana, Wellington Regional Stadium, New Zealand – 07:00 (South African time)
- Argentina vs Banyana Banyana, Forsyth Barr Stadium, New Zealand – 02:00 (South African time)
- Banyana Banyana vs Italy, Wellington Regional Stadium, New Zealand – 09:00 ( South African time)