Donnelly's dream debut as she shares pitch with idol

STRIKER Ronnel Donnelly has already realised two important dreams at the ongoing Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in Morocco.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

The 21-year-old earned her maiden Banyana Banyana cap in South Africa's 2-0 victory over Ghana in their Group C opener on Monday — a moment made even more special as she shared the pitch with her longtime idol and national teammate, Jermaine Seoposenwe. “Honestly, no, not at all,” said Donnelly, when asked if she expected to make her debut against the Black Queens at Honneur Stadium in Oujda.

“I didn’t think I’d get the chance to play alongside the people I look up to — like Jermaine.

“I look up to her in every way possible, so actually playing with her has been an honour. I didn’t expect it at all, but I am so grateful to be here. Like, tjo!”

Donnelly’s admiration for Seoposenwe clearly runs deep. Having finally shared the field with her in an official match, the young forward now believes that even greater things lie ahead.