Desiree Ellis names 26-Woman squad for TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON title defence

Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has named a 26-player squad for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2024, as South Africa prepares to defend its title in Morocco from 5 to 26 July.

South Africa are the reigning continental champions, having secured their first-ever continental crown in 2022 by defeating hosts Morocco in a historic final. Now, Ellis is aiming for back-to-back success with a squad that blends domestic strength and international experience.

The team’s backbone comes from the local league, with Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies contributing eight players, including veterans Andile Dlamini, Lebohang Ramalepe, and Bambanani Mbane.

JVW FC follows with five players, notably goalkeeper Kaylin Swart and forward Bonolo Mokoma.

The University of the Western Cape (UWC), who made their CAF Women’s Champions League debut this past season adds four names, while TS Galaxy Ladies has two representatives: Dineo Magagula and Refiloe Jane.

Ellis has also leaned on overseas-based talent. Six players are currently playing abroad, led by Linda Motlhalo of Glasgow City—the only UK-based player. Also included are Hildah Magaia and Jermaine Seoposenwe, both in Mexico, and Bongeka Gamede from Denmark.

The squad reflects Ellis’s strategy of mixing experience with promising new talent.

However, the team will be without star forward Thembi Kgatlana, who withdrew for personal reasons. Veteran attacker Jermaine Seoposenwe announced that this tournament will be her final appearance for the national team, adding an emotional element to the campaign.

Banyana Banyana have been drawn in Group B alongside Ghana, Tanzania, and Mali.

With a solid domestic foundation, bolstered by international pedigree, South Africa is well-positioned to challenge strongly for another title.

TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON Morocco 2024 South Africa Squad: 

GOALKEEPERS:

Kaylin Swart, Andile Dlamini, Dineo Magagula, Casey Gordon

DEFENDERS:

Lebohang Ramalepe, Fikile Magama, Gabriela Salgado, Tiisetso Makhubela, Bambani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, Lonathemba Mhlongo

MIDFIELDERS:

Bongeka Gamede, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Mothlalo, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Refiloe Jane, Amogelang Motau, Regina Mogolola, Noxolo Cesane

FORWARDS:

Adrielle Mibe, Kgalebane Mohlakoana, Hilda Magaia, Jermaine Seopesenwe, Nthabiseng Majiya, Bonolo Mokoma, Ronnel Donnelly