Banyana star opens up on racism encounters overseas

A Banyana Banyana star has opened up on racism encounters she has endured overseas.

The talented player made the shocking revelations in an interview with Metro FM [Sports Night Amplified with Andile Ncube] on Tuesday night. 

Racism has become another pandemic, especially towards African players who are plying their trade overseas. 

Banyana Banyana co-captain Refiloe Jane has spoken for the first time about the racist abuse she endured in Italy.

The South Africa-born midfielder moved to Italy in 2019 to join Serie A giants AC Milan. Now, Jane is in the books of Sassuolo after her departure from Milan in August 2022. 

REFILOE JANE MAKES UNPLEASANT RASICM REVELATIONS 

“When I first arrived in Italy, I was the only black player in the team. I experienced racism in how I was treated,” said Jane.

“It’s the looks you get for being black. And being followed around in a shop because they don’t think you can afford to buy anything. 

“They think like you’re there in the store to steal.” 

‘PLAYING ABROAD IS NOT EASY’

The 30-year-old midfield maestro went on to divulge how difficult it is to play overseas, as one needs to be “mentally strong.”

“Playing abroad is not easy, you need to be mentally strong and have a strong support system,” she added.

Jane further stated the difference between the European football from the local game. 

“The standard of football is the difference between playing in Europe and South Africa. Here in Europe, it’s more tactical,” explained the 2022 WAFCON winner. 

“In Europe, they look at football more holistically.”

On a positive note, Jane has made it into coach Desiree Ellis’ Banyana preliminary 32-member squad. South Africa will face Serbia in an away friendly international in April. 

The friendly match is part of the national team’s preparations for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup. The tournament will be take place in Australia and New Zealand. 

The eagerly-awaited Women’s World Cup tournament will start from July 20 until August 20. 

The Banyana provisional squad consists of 26 local players and six abroad-based players. 

Interestingly, the 26 local-based players will go into camp on Monday, 27 March 2023. 

RELATED STORY: Refiloe Jane’s journey from Soweto to Milan