In a decisive move ahead of the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has announced a full-strength squad for two friendly internationals against Malawi, scheduled for 5 and 8 April.

The national women’s team are ramping up preparations for the defence of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown at this year’s showpiece to be hosted in Morocco from 5-26 July.

The encounters against Malawi, in Johannesburg, will offer an opportunity for the team to solidify their strategies and build cohesion before the continental championship.

Ellis has emphasised the importance of these matches, stating they are essential for assessing player readiness and fine-tuning tactics ahead of a fiercely competitive tournament.

It also offers a chance to expand the number of players available for national team selection.

Several key players are returning from injury, and others are enjoying good form.

So, the friendlies will serve as a crucial gauge of the team’s dynamics as they aim to replicate their historic triumph from the last competition in 2022 when the team were crowned continental champs in hostile Morocco.

A few regulars like Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dlhamini and Wendy Shongwe are nursing injuries and were not considered for selection.

Former skipper and midfielder Refiloe Jane was not selected after she recently returned to local football. She signed with Hollywoodbets Super League side TS Galaxy Queens.

Banyana will play Malawi’s ‘Scorchers’ in the first match on 5 April and again three days later, at local venues still to be decided.

Banyana Banyana Squad

Goalkeepers: Kaylin Swart, Casey Gordon (both JVW FC), Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies)

Defenders: Lebohang Ramapele, Tiisetso Makhubela, (both Sundowns Ladies), Fikile Magama, Lonathemba Mhlongo (both UWC Ladies), Gabriela Salgado (JVW FC), Shakira O'Malley (Western Michigan University, USA), Noko Matlou (Cacereno FC, Spain)

Midfielders: Bongeka Gamede (Nordsjælland, Denmark), Linda Motlhalo (Glasgow City, Scotland), Nonhlanhla Mthandi (Sundowns Ladies), Nompumelelo Nyandeni (JVW FC), Amogelang Motau (Club Tijuana, Mexico), Noxolo Cesane (Eastern Flames, Saudi Arabia)

Forwards: Samkelisiwe Selana (TS Galaxy Queens), Adrielle Mibe (UJ Ladies), Hildah Magaia (Club Tijuana, Mexico), Mavis Maiacane (Super Strikers FC), Jermaine Seoposenwe (CF Monterrey, Mexico), Thembi Kgatlana (UANL Tigres, Mexico), Kgaelebane Mohlakoana (TP Mazembe, DR Congo)

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WAFCON champions Banyana Banyana unveil squad for Malawi double-header