South African Women’s U-20 national football team Basetsana will look to book their place at this year FIFA Women’s World Cup to be staged in France.

The Khumalo led Basetsana will have to get past a very formidable Nigeria in a first leg encounter of the final rounds of qualifiers scheduled to be played at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday 13 January 2018.

Speaking to Soccer Laduma, SA U-20 coach Maude Khumalo noted the tough encounter that lies ahead for her and the players, noting the fierce rivalry between South Africa and Nigeria.

“It’s fitting that we play Nigeria at this stage of the qualifications. The age-old rivalry between our two nations extends throughout all the national teams,” said Khumalo.

“We are going to play the best in the World Cup then we need to be able to beat the best. The pressure is definitely there, but we need to look at the bigger picture. We are on the verge of making history to qualify for the Women’s World Cup for the first time ever.

“The players have wanted to play at this level and to achieve this for their families and the country. Now they have to go out there and show it in front of the nation. I believe in them and I know we have what it takes to do it,” she added.

“We want the country to come out and support this vision. It will be a historical moment for us and we want to share it with the nation,” concluded the Basetsana mentor.

The first leg encounter is scheduled to start at 15h30.

Source – Soccer Laduma