Mares prepare for life after Bebeto :: Mmegi Online

As more than a decade-long international career nears, the senior women national team selectors are forced to look for options. Long-serving team captain, Bonang Otlhagile was notably absent against Banyana Banyana on Tuesday, as a new central pair was tasked with shielding the Mares posts. But has the new-look defence passed the test, asks Mmegi Sport Correspondent, KABELO BORANABI

Retirement is inevitable for 34-year-old skipper, Bonang Otlhagile. She has more than a decade-long service in the senior team having made her debut as a teenager. ‘Bebeto’ as she is commonly known, started as an attacker but it was her versatility that helped her remain at the highest level of women’s football for long. At her early age, she presented several options in the attack she could as a central forward, a winger or an attacking midfielder.

She then dropped to a central midfield position as she approached her prime, but she then settled in a central defensive role. Since her debut, she has been ever-present in the team. On Tuesday afternoon, Otlhagile was watching from the stands in a tie used to prepare the team for the Africa Women Cup of Nations (AWCON) and the COSAFA Championships.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

Mares prepare for life after Bebeto

Explore

More

South Africa builds Africa’s healthcare supply chains as USD 2 billion flows into the sector

A deep dive into history’s Cabinet scandal resignations

From Cabinet to court

The Fortuner that drove into the charge sheet

A reflection on Salakae’s co-accused

Salakae remains loyal amid BNF turmoil

XLVIII: Years of strokes, stories and soul

On The Menu serves up taste of the World

Let justice, not politics determine Salakae’s fate