By Michael Madyira
Banyana Banyana forward Jermaine Seoposenwe has joined an exclusive club of South African female footballers who have accumulated 100 national team caps.
With a career spanning 14 years, the 30-year-old played her 100th international match against Tanzania on Tuesday to become the 10th Banyana player to achieve that feat.
She joins Janine van Wyk, Noko Matlou, Mpumi Nyandeni, Nothando Vilakazi, Portia Modise, Refiloe Jane, Mamello Makhabane, Amanda Dlamini and Leandra Smeda to play a century of games for South Africa.
“It is an honour to be part of the national team for such a long time, and I think few people get to join the club,” Seoposenwe told Safa media.
“I am privileged and honoured to be here. Thank you to my teammates, the staff, Safa and everyone who has been involved in my journey up to this point. It has been a long one – 14 years.”
Making Seoposenwe’s feat interesting is that at some point during her career, she spent two years out of the national side.
“Mentality, perseverance and determination – I think it is tough to play in this [Banyana Banyana] team,” she said.
“It is tough to be consistent as well, it demands a lot from you but if you want to do it and put your mind to it, then you can. It’s a lot of hard work and sacrifices.
“It’s a great journey to be a part of. You make long-lasting friendships, and it takes you everywhere. The game of football has given me so much and I am privileged to be a part of this team, and to be where I am today.”
Now 30, it appears difficult for the Mexico-based attacker to become Banyana’s highest-capped player.
Her former Banyana teammate Janine van Wyk is the most capped African footballer of all time, both male and female, with 185 national team games.
Pictured above: Banyana Banyana forward Jermaine Seoposenwe being honoured after clocking 100 national team caps.
Image source: Banyana Banyana
