Mangela’s Cosafa debut in 2022. Image: UWC FC shared via Facebook.
(The Post News)- Khanyisa Manengela, a talented footballer from Gugulethu, Cape Town, has officially achieved one of her dreams: earning her first call-up to Banyana Banyana, South Africa’s Senior Women’s National Team. Manengela, commonly known as ‘Money,’ rose to national prominence following her outstanding accomplishments for the University of the Western Cape (UWC).
This opportunity marks a significant milestone in her career, solidifying her place among South Africa’s rising football stars. Despite her steady rise, Manengela admits that the timing of the call took her by surprise and expressed her excitement upon hearing the news. “Although I knew I’d been working hard, I didn’t expect it to happen this year. It’s been a personal goal of mine, and now that it’s happened, I’m over the moon,” she said.
Manengela’s football journey began with the Cape Town Roses before she joined UWC in 2017. There, she has juggled her academic responsibilities with football, proving herself as both a player and a student. Her dedication and hard work have paid off; she has earned several player of the match awards this season, and most recently, she helped UWC qualify for the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League. This prestigious tournament will take place in Morocco on November 5, 2024, marking another exciting chapter in her career.
Reflecting on her recent success, Manengela credits her participation in the COSAFA Champions League qualifiers as a major turning point. “Playing in those qualifiers really opened my eyes to what it takes to compete at the highest level. That’s where I want to be—pushing myself to reach my full potential.”
Now part of the Banyana Banyana camp, Manengela feels at home. Some of her club teammates are also with the national team, which has eased her transition. She asserted that being welcomed by senior players has been incredible and that “Training with the champions of Africa is an honor, and I can’t wait to learn from them.” Manengela knows the importance of making the most of this opportunity. “These two friends are crucial for me. I need to show the coaches that I belong here and earn a permanent spot on the team. I’m here to grow, learn, and prove myself.”
Banyana Banyana will play Denmark in the first of two European friendlies on 25 October 2024 at Aalborg Stadium and will begin at 6 p.m. SABC Sport will broadcast it live. Manengela prepares for this next chapter; her story is a testament to perseverance and passion. She has proven that dreams are achievable through hard work, and this is only the beginning of her journey at the highest level.
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