Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has announced her squad to face Burkina Faso in the 2024 Women’s Africa cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers at the end this month and early December.
The first match is scheduled to take place in Burkina Faso on 30 November, with the return leg set for Lucas Moripe Stadium on 4 December.
Tickets for Banyana’s home leg are already on sale at Ticketpro, costing R20 for adults while children get in for free.
Banyana are looking to carry their good momentum this year following their historic Last-16 finish at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand and their progression in the qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
The coach had anticipated to welcome back some of her stars who missed the Olympics qualifiers against Democratic Republic of Congo, who were absent for several reasons including exams and injuries.
The last time out Ellis had to rely on a new young backline and introduced young midfielders, who held their own under demanding conditions.
South Africa were given a bye in the first round as WAFCON defending champions alongside Zambia as last event’s bronze medallist.
One of the big talking points in Ellis’ squad is the return of former captain Janine Van Wyk, who had left the previous camp under a cloud. She only needs two more games to become the most-capped footballer – men or women – in Africa.
Meanwhile, captain Refiloe Jane, who recently returned to training with her club in Italy, has not made the squad as she continues her recovery from the serious injury she picked up at the 2022 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Here is Banyana’s squad in full:
