South Africa’s Women’s Coach Sets Sights on Title Defense Amid Rising Competition

As anticipation builds for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) draw, Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis remains unfazed by the prospects of facing any opponent. The draw, scheduled for Friday evening at the Mohammed VI Technical Centre in Salé, Morocco, marks a crucial step in the journey toward the delayed tournament set for July 5–26, 2024.

With 12 teams, including heavyweights like Nigeria, Morocco, and Zambia, vying for continental glory, Ellis, whose team will enter as defending champions, acknowledged the growing competitiveness of women’s football across Africa.

“You can’t underestimate any team anymore,” Ellis said. “The [2024] Caf Champions League has shown that no one is standing still. Everyone is putting in the work, and we must be ready.”

Testing Grounds in Jamaica

Ellis’ focus is firmly on preparation as Banyana embark on two friendlies against Jamaica on November 29 and December 2 in the Caribbean. Despite key absences, including captain Thembi Kgatlana and attacker Jermaine Seoposenwe, the coach views these matches as a vital step in refining her squad.

“Jamaica brings physicality, something we struggle with,” Ellis said. “We’re going to face similar challenges at Wafcon, and we must be ready at a higher level.”

The friendlies follow a mixed European tour for South Africa, where they suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat to Denmark but bounced back with a spirited performance in a narrow 2-1 loss to European champions England.

No Easy Matches

Ellis refrained from wishing for a favorable draw, underscoring the unpredictability of the competition. She highlighted the return of Ghana, a former powerhouse, as a reminder of the tournament’s heightened stakes.

“When the draw comes out, we’ll plan accordingly. There’s no easy team anymore, and we must be prepared for anyone,” she said.

Banyana’s Squad for Jamaica Friendlies

Ellis has named a balanced squad blending experience and emerging talent:

Goalkeepers: Kaylin Swart, Andile Dlamini, Jessica Williams

Defenders: Tiisetso Makhubela, Shakira O’Malley, Lebohang Ramalepe, Ntando Phahla, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Karabo Dlamini, Asanda Hadebe

Midfielders: Bongeka Gamede, Nomvula Kgoale, Noxolo Cesane, Amogelang Motau, Kholosa Biyana, Sibongile Ntoane, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Sibulele Holweni

Strikers: Linda Motlhalo, Nicole Michael, Hildah Magaia, Nthabiseng Majiya, Gugu Dlamini

Looking Ahead

Banyana will approach the 2024 Wafcon with cautious optimism and a renewed focus on overcoming physical challenges, staying competitive, and retaining their title. For Ellis, the journey to Morocco starts now, with each game a stepping stone toward African football glory.