“Only the top soccer playing countries in the world competes in this tournament, and we are very excited to be part of it,” said Banyana Banyana coach Vera Pauw.
“The Cyprus Women’s Cup will give our charges an ideal workout ahead of the busy year for the Senior National Women’s team.”
The annual 12-nation Cyprus Women’s Cup runs from March 2 to 12 and Banyana Banyana have been drawn in Group C together with Belgium, Czech Republic and Mexico. The group will be based in Ayia Napa.
Banyana Banyana are preparing for qualifying matches in both the All Africa Games and the Olympics. The Dutch-born mentor says the trip to Europe could not have come at a better time.
She said results are not what matters in such events, but that the team will give a good account of themselves during the tournament.
“The experience we are going to get there is just priceless. This is the type of opposition we missed ahead of the CAF African Women tournament that took place in Namibia late last year. I know that our fitness levels are not so good at this stage, but the experience will come through. While the girls are not as match fit as I would have liked, the Cyprus Cup should slowly put them in the right frame,” said Pauw.
Group A is made up of Canada, Italy, Korea Republic and Scotland, while Group B comprises Australia, England, Finland and Netherlands. The two groups will be based in Larnaca.
Banyana Banyana leaves for Cyprus on Wednesday February 25 and return home on Friday March 13.
