Banyana Banyana have announced their starting XI for their must-win final round Paris 2024 Olympic qualifier at Loftus stadium tonight (19:30)
There is not any room for error when Banyana host the Super Falcons of Nigeria in the second leg after going down 1-0 in Nigeria last week Friday.
Despite having just one day to prepare for the return leg, the African champions will need to score goals and not concede to give themselves a shot at one of the only two tickets available for African sides at the Games.
A draw would see Banyana miss their second successive Olympic Games, while a narrow win that results in the match being tied on aggregate would see the match being decided on penalties.
Both countries have missed the last event and both want continuity of appearances in international tournaments, following their respective showings at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The Banyana camp has been boosted by the arrival of Mazatlan Femenil midfielder Sinoxolo Cesane, who didn’t travel for the away leg. Cesane has been scoring (4) for her club, alongside national teammate Hildah Magaia (3) in the Mexican league.
There could be even bigger celebrations for defender Lebogang Ramalepe, who is on the verge of 100 caps should she play.
Here is how they line up:
Banyana XI: Swart, Ramalepe, Makhubela, Gamede, Dhlamini, Jane, Motlhalo, Kgoale, Cesane, Seoposenwe, Kgatlana
Subs: Ngobeni, Moletsane, Matlou, Magama, Magaia, Salgado, Mbane, Holweni, Mhlongo, Cesane, Motau
