South African football icon Noko Matlou has confirmed her retirement from international football, bringing an illustrious career to a close after one final appearance for Banyana Banyana against Malawi next month.
The 39-year-old departs with a legacy defined by resilience, leadership, and success on the global stage.
A distinguished career
Matlou’s journey with the national team has been one of perseverance and triumph.
She played an instrumental role in South Africa’s historic 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations victory and was part of the squad that reached the round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup—Banyana Banyana’s best-ever performance in the tournament.
With 175 international caps, she is the second-most capped player in South African women’s football history, trailing only former captain Janine van Wyk, who holds 185 caps.
Looking back on a remarkable journey
In an interview with SABC Sport, Matlou reflected on her career with gratitude and pride.
“Reflecting on my journey, it has been long, full of ups and downs, but in the end, I achieved my goal and I am happy to leave the team in a good frame of mind,” she said.
Acknowledging the strength of the current squad, she emphasized the importance of giving the next generation of players their chance to shine.
“I think it is time for me to give the young players a chance, to showcase their talent as I have shown mine since my debut,” she added.
A final farewell on home soil
Matlou’s farewell match against Malawi will offer her the opportunity to don the national team’s colors one last time, marking her 176th appearance for South Africa.
The match, to be played on home soil, will allow fans to celebrate her contribution to the team.
“It means a lot to me to represent my country for the last time, especially since we are playing at home so that people, my fans and everyone, can honor me for the last time with a green and gold jersey,” she expressed.
A grateful goodbye
Matlou also extended her appreciation to head coach Desiree Ellis, who granted her the chance to bid farewell in front of South African supporters.
As she steps away from the international stage, her influence on women’s football in the country remains undeniable, cementing her status as one of Banyana Banyana’s most revered players.
