Banyana Banyana Narrow Wafcon Squad Ahead of Title Defence

(The Post News)– As Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) 2025 looms, Banyana Banyana head coach Dr Desiree Ellis has trimmed her preliminary squad from 46 to 28 players, sharpening her selection ahead of next month’s tournament in Morocco.

Of the 28, 24 home-based players will report for camp in Johannesburg on 19 June, while four internationals will join later due to ongoing club obligations. Their arrival is expected to be delayed, as the camp begins outside FIFA’s official window.

There are still a few question marks. Star forward Hildah Magaia remains under medical review after the recent #ThreeNations Challenge in Pretoria, where Banyana faced Zambia and Botswana. Meanwhile, Thembi Kgatlana will miss the tournament entirely, having withdrawn from the squad for personal reasons.

The final team list will be revealed on 23 June in Johannesburg before the squad departs for Morocco. Banyana Banyana, backed by Sasol, will be based in Oujda during the group stage as they aim to defend their crown in Group C. Their opening fixture is against Ghana on 7 July at Honneur Stadium.

South Africa’s next two opponents will be Tanzania on 11 July and Mali on 14 July. The full tournament runs from 5 to 26 July, with the opening match between hosts Morocco and Zambia taking place in Rabat at the newly constructed Olympic Stadium.