Banyana Banyana defender Bambanani Mbane has faced widespread criticism after a TikTok Live video appeared to show her swearing at supporters following South Africa’s shock 2-1 defeat by Tanzania at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The 36-year-old was seen responding angrily to comments from viewers during the livestream, which took place only days after the national team’s disappointing result.
Mbane appeared to defend Banyana Banyana and questioned the impact of supporters withdrawing their backing. Her reaction has since gone viral on social media, prompting many fans to question whether the experienced defender had acted professionally during an international tournament.
“Fing st… your love relationships are not working. Go fix them… You are not Gods,” the Banyana defender said.
She continued by telling critics they were not obliged to support the team, while accusing some of them of following football only through highlights.
“If you don’t want to support us, then don’t. It doesn’t mean when you don’t support us something will change. You want us to beg you like you are our Gods. You don’t even watch football. All you know is just highlights… Fing st,” Mbane said during the TikTok Live.
The clip has attracted strong reactions from supporters, with several expressing disappointment at the player’s comments and questioning the decision to broadcast live during the tournament.
@Snotyme wrote: “Going live during a tournament, how unprofessional. Mind you, Sithole faced far worse insults and criticism; not once did they do such.”
@YokumGwebu commented: “Does she know what happened to Scotts Maphuma when he clashed with fans? She must be careful. Women’s football barely fills one stand of the stadium in SA.”
@Thee3nthusiasts added: “Bambanani Mbane swearing at fans is wrong. I know the fans are too much, especially after a loss, but this is wrong. No one is immune to criticism.”
Mbane’s comments have prompted a wider debate over how national-team players should respond to criticism and online abuse. Some supporters have defended her frustration, arguing that players can face excessive personal attacks after poor results.
Others believe that footballers representing South Africa must maintain their professionalism, regardless of the nature or volume of criticism directed at them.
Neither SAFA nor Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has responded to Mbane’s rant.
The incident comes after Banyana Banyana were beaten 2-1 by Tanzania at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, a result described as a shock given South Africa’s status and expectations surrounding the team.
The South African is also inviting readers to take part in its Winter Reader Survey, with a chance to win R5 000.
