SAFA to deal internally with Mbane after social media outburst
The South African Football Association (SAFA) says it will deal internally with Banyana Banyana defender Bambanani Mbane following her emotional social media comments after the team’s shock defeat to Tanzania at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Mbane’s comments went viral shortly before Banyana’s crucial Group B clash against Ivory Coast, with the experienced defender expressing frustration over what she described as a lack of support from some fans.
The centre-back, who scored Banyana’s only goal in the 2-1 defeat to Tanzania, questioned why some supporters appeared to believe the players deliberately wanted to lose. “Is there anyone who goes onto the field and intentionally loses?” Mbane asked. “Do you think we are playing against ourselves? If you don’t want to support us, just say so. There are people who will support us whether we win or lose. We are also human beings.”
Her remarks sparked widespread debate on social media, prompting SAFA to issue an official statement. “The South African Football Association (SAFA) has noted with concern comments on social media related to a Banyana Banyana player,” the association said. “We would like to assure football-loving fans and Banyana Banyana supporters that the matter is being dealt with internally.”
SAFA also apologised for the comments and said the team’s immediate priority was their WAFCON fixture against Ivory Coast. “SAFA sincerely apologises for the unfortunate utterances and thanks the public for their unwavering support. With today being match day, the team’s immediate focus is on the WAFCON fixture against Ivory Coast. The matter will be addressed after the fixture,” the statement concluded.
Banyana went into the Ivory Coast match knowing only a positive result would keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive after opening the tournament with defeat to Tanzania.