Banyana Banyana Prepare for Double Friendly Against Jamaica

Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has boldly predicted that an African women’s football team will claim the FIFA World Cup title before any men’s side from the continent. This statement came during a press briefing at SABC headquarters in Auckland Park, where she announced her final squad for a double friendly against Jamaica in Montego Bay on November 29 and December 2.

“I’m not being sexist,” Ellis emphasized. “A women’s national team in Africa will probably win the World Cup first. The last tournament showed how unpredictable the competition is. No one imagined Japan beating Spain 4-0 in the group stages, and then Spain going on to win it all. This evolution in global women’s football is mirrored on our continent as well. We need to keep pushing because everyone else is improving.”

Ellis, who was recently inducted into the South African Hall of Fame, reflected on her many accolades, including the Order of Ikhamanga from President Cyril Ramaphosa and an honorary doctorate from Cape Peninsula University of Technology. However, she revealed that retaining the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco next year would surpass all her achievements.

“Every accolade holds special meaning,” Ellis said. “But defending our WAFCON title would be the ultimate achievement. It shows we’re on the right track, and I hope this momentum continues.”

The squad announcement included notable absences. Injured defender Bambanani Mbane and Mexico-based duo Thembi Kgatlana and Jermaine Seoposenwe were excluded due to their clubs’ congested schedules.

“Bambanani is out due to injury, while Thembi and Jermaine have an intense schedule, playing six games in 16 days. It’s too much to expect them to join us in time for Jamaica,” Ellis explained.

CAF will conduct the WAFCON draw on Friday, setting the stage for the tournament in Morocco, scheduled for July 5–26, 2024.

Banyana Banyana Squad for Jamaica Friendlies

Goalkeepers: Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Regirl Ngobeni
Defenders: Sibulele Holweni, Lebohang Ramalepe, Bongeka Gamede, Nthabiseng Majiya, Robyn Moodaly, Amogelang Motau
Midfielders: Nomvula Kgoale, Noxolo Cesane, Refiloe Jane, Linda Motlalo, Thalea Smidt
Forwards: Hildah Magaia, Lelona Daweti, Gugu Dlamini