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| South Africa have announced their U23 squad for the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro. (Picture: Twitter) |
South Africa have announced their Under-23 squad to represent the country at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro in August.
The announcement took place on Thursday, with SASCOC president Gideon Sam congratulating the 113 athletes of Team South Africa.
“You have all earned the ultimate honour of representing your country. We have every faith in you excelling at your various events,” Sam said.
“Attending the Olympics is the pinnacle of a sportsman’s dream. Go and showcase the rainbow nation to the best of your ability.”
Two of the three overage spots were filled by Kaizer Chiefs duo Itumeleng Khune and Eric Mathoho.
The South Africa U23 Olympics squad:
Goalkeepers: Itumeleng Khune, Jody February;
Defenders: Kwanda Mngonyama, Rivaldo Coetzee, Abbubaker Mobara, Mothobi Mvala, Eric Mathoho, Tebogo Moerane, Tercious Molepe;
Midfielders: Gift Motupa, Aubrey Modiba, Deolin Mekoa, Keagan Dolly, Phumlani Ntshangase;
Forwards: Tyroane Sandows, Lebo Mothiba, Tashreeq Morris, Menzi Masuku.
The women’s football team was also announced, with Vera Pauw expecting her side to have gained some valuable lessons from their 1-0 international friendly defeat against the world champions USA ahead of the Rio Games.
The South Africa women’s football squad:
Roxanne Barker, Amanda Dlamini, Andile Dlamini, Refiloe Jane, Bambanani Mbane, Mamello Makhabane, Stephanie Malherbe, Noko Matlou, Sanah Mollo, Robyn Moodaly, Linda Motlhalo, Octavia Nogwanya, Nompumelelo Nyandeni, Lebohang Ramalepe, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Leandra Smeda, Janine van Wyk, Nothando Vilakazi.