Andile Dlamini unfazed by World Cup lack of game time

Dlamini, who was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) a year prior, watched the entire FIFA campaign from the bench, despite Banyana’s progression to the Round of 16.

Speaking to SABC Sport, however, Dlamini says she not only understood her role Down Under, but that she has gone through considerably worse.

"Yes, I didn't play at the FIFA Women's World Cup but I'm a team player. In a team, there are 23 players and only 11 can play. Mentally I'm very strong and physically I was very strong. I've been through so much and this is nothing," Dlamini said.

"What I have been through, I've conquered. I think the heart infusion was the worst thing that has ever happened to me and I thought I was losing my life but when I came back I was like nothing is gonna break me and nothing is ever gonna break me because I am a strong woman. I support where I need to support and I think I played my part when it comes to them,” she said confidently. 

The Mamelodi Sundowns shooter has fallen down the pecking order even in the Hollywoodbets Super League, but draws strength from her faith to see her through these rough patches.

While most players would have been lamenting the non-selection, Dlamini stayed upbeat throughout the campaign.

With her infectious smile, she was seen leading the chants in the dressing rooms.

"Sometimes when God pulls you aside, he pulls you aside to see the greatness that's within your surroundings and sometimes he pulls you aside to speak to you. To say 'Hey listen to me, I want you to hear me out. This is what I'm calling you out for, be a positive impact here and here'. 

“Not every time when God pulls you aside it's a negative sign. Sometimes it's a positive one even when someone thinks it's a negative one. For me, it was so positive because I got to see a whole lot of things," Dlamini added.

Dlamini had nothing but praise for fellow goalie Kaylin Swart, whose performance in the four games against Sweden, Argentina, Italy, and, finally, the knockout round against the Netherlands was as polarising as Dlamini’s absence.

"I play the same position, mistakes are made. She did incredible and congratulations to her. I'm proud of her. I'm proud of the woman that she is. She must just keep on working, keep on fighting. It's not an easy position, I've been there, I've done that. She just has to work hard. I'm proud of her journey. Like I said I'm a team player."