Desiree Ellis' side are currently in Antalya, Turkey, for the exhibition tournament to be staged in the resort city of Alanya. The team and officials landed in the earthquake-hit country on Tuesday and Wednesday this week.
When media houses reached out to Safa for elaboration on why Banyana will take part in the tournament, the officials' phones had been switched off, while their communications team evaded enquiries. Those videos looked staged, as there was no show of emotion, sympathy and empathy towards what the people of Turkey are going through. Steenbok even had to look at the person holding the camera to be reminded that he has to pass on their condolences.
The country does want Banyana to do well in the upcoming Fifa Women's World Cup later this year and understands that preparation is key. However, a tragedy has happened, and it does not make sense to take part in the tournament.
Countries are pulling thier citizens OUT of Turkiye. South Africa 🇿🇦 is sending its girls to go play there. Turkiye sports have been suspended, yet SAFA sees it fir to send our girls there...