Banyana 'keeper relishes Brazil clash: 'The more you play tougher opponents, the more you grow'

The 2022 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) champions, Banyana Banyana, will host Copa America Femenina winners, Brazil, in two historic friendlies.

Desiree Ellis' side will entertain the visitors at the Orlando Stadium on Friday (2 September) and three days later at the Moses Mabhida Stadium (Monday, 3 September).

Speaking to reporters ahead of the highly anticipated clash, Banyana goalkeeper Andile Dlamini said she was excited to be facing the Brazilians.

"This is a game you would've loved as a female footballer after winning Wafcon because they are tough opponents, they are champions," she said.

"We have to go even higher to get higher opponents like Brazil. We played against Netherlands before we went to Wafcon and it showed where we needed to improve.

"I know with tougher opponents, a player will obviously grow and enjoy, and as a player you don't want to be at the same level.

"The more you play tougher opponents, the more you grow individually and the more you grow as a team."

When asked about the Brazil squad, Dlamini said she expected a competitive match.

"It doesn't matter what team they select to play South Africa, they are Brazil. Most of their players play for professional teams," Dlamini continued.

"They want this game to be as competitive as possible because they are also preparing".

Banyana have had a rollercoaster year with preparing for the Wafcon and eventually beating host nation Morocco in the final. In the process, Ellis' charges also secured their qualification to next year's Women's World Cup set to take place in New Zealand and Australia (July-August).

And that tournament is what Dlamini and her team-mates are working towards next. 

"You have goals as a team and you reach them. After that there's a