South Africa’s senior women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, have officially named a 26-player squad to represent the country at the upcoming CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) set to take place in Morocco from 5 to 26 July 2025.
Head coach Desiree Ellis has selected a well-balanced team made up of both experienced campaigners and exciting new talents as South Africa look to defend the continental title they won in 2022.
Key Squad Details:
The squad boasts a strong contingent from Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies, including top performers like Andile Dlamini, Lebohang Ramalepe, and Bambanani Mbane. There is also significant international experience with players such as Linda Motlhalo (Glasgow City, Scotland), Hildah Magaia, and Jermaine Seoposenwe (both playing in Mexico).
Sadly, South Africa will be without star forward Thembi Kgatlana, who withdrew from the squad due to personal reasons. However, coach Ellis expressed full confidence in the depth of the team and the ability of other players to rise to the occasion.
“We’ve had to play without Thembi before and the players stepped up. We are confident that this group has what it takes to go all the way again,” said Ellis.
Notable Inclusions & Exits:
- Jermaine Seoposenwe is set for her final international tournament, bringing an emotional end to a decorated career.
- Young talents such as Bongeka Gamede and Ronnel Donnelly make the cut as the team transitions for the future.
Goalkeepers:
Kaylin Swart, Andile Dlamini, Dineo Magagula, Casey Gordon
Defenders:
Lebohang Ramalepe, Bambanani Mbane, Tiisetso Makhubela, Karabo Dhlamini, Gabriela Salgado, Fikile Magama, Lonathemba Mhlongo
Midfielders:
Refiloe Jane, Amogelang Motau, Bongeka Gamede, Linda Motlhalo, Sibulele Holweni, Noxolo Cesane, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Regina Mogolola
Forwards:
Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, Adrielle Mibe, Kgalebane Mohlakoana, Bonolo Mokoma, Ronnel Donnelly, Nthabiseng Majiya
Group Stage Opponents:
South Africa will compete in a challenging group alongside Ghana, Tanzania, and Mali, with the aim of progressing to the knockout stages and ultimately defending their crown.
