JOHANNESBURG — When a national team squad announcement takes place, the attention usually falls on the players selected for the big stage. But at Sasol Place, the spotlight belonged to one name alone — Refiloe Jane.
The South African Football Association (SAFA), together with team sponsors, officially honoured the midfield icon and Banyana Banyana captain after she achieved an extraordinary milestone: 150 international appearances for South Africa.
The special recognition came as head coach Dr. Desiree Ellis announced the final 26-player squad heading to Morocco for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). For Jane, who reached the landmark during South Africa’s memorable 1-0 victory over Japan in Osaka, the achievement represents decades of dedication, sacrifice, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the national jersey.
Entering the Hall of South African Football Greats
Affectionately known as “Fifinho”, the Soweto-born midfielder has built a legacy that places her among the most influential footballers Africa has ever produced.
By reaching 150 caps, the 33-year-old entered an elite group of South African football legends, becoming only the fourth player in the country’s history to achieve the remarkable feat.
She joins an exclusive list alongside:
- Janine van Wyk — 185 caps
- Noko Matlou — 174 caps
- Nompumelelo Nyandeni — 150 caps
Reflecting on the milestone, Jane expressed gratitude for the journey that brought her to this historic moment.
“When I look at that milestone, it feels as if it’s been forever, but it’s something to be grateful for. It shows the hard work, commitment, and the discipline that I’ve worked hard for throughout the years in the national team. It’s not easy to get to 150, but with the courage and willingness to work for the nation, that’s why I’m here.”
A Journey Built on Resilience, Sacrifice and Historic Firsts
Jane’s rise from the streets of Kliptown to the highest levels of international football is a story of determination and perseverance.
Her talent was discovered at a local holiday tournament in late 2011 by former Banyana Banyana coach Joseph Mkhonza, opening the door to a remarkable international career. She made her official debut for South Africa in 2012 against Northern Ireland and quickly established herself as one of the team’s most reliable performers.
Since then, Jane has represented Banyana Banyana at two Olympic Games — London 2012 and Rio 2016 — while becoming one of the most respected midfielders on the continent.
Her club career has been equally historic. In 2018, Jane and teammate Rhoda Mulaudzi became the first South African footballers to sign for Australia’s W-League, joining Canberra United and breaking new ground for South African women’s football.
Her performances in Australia attracted European attention, leading to a move to Italy where she featured in the prestigious Serie A Femminile with clubs including AC Milan and Sassuolo.
Refiloe Jane’s Career Journey
2012 — Banyana Banyana Debut
Made her international debut against Northern Ireland and began a journey that would establish her as a national team cornerstone.
2018 — Canberra United
Became one of the first South African players to compete in Australia’s top-flight women’s football league.
2019–2024 — AC Milan and Sassuolo
Spent five seasons competing in Italy’s Serie A, gaining valuable experience at the highest club level.
2022 — WAFCON Champion
Played a key leadership role as South Africa won their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
2025–Present — TS Galaxy Queens
Returned to the SAFA Women’s League after recovering from a long-term injury layoff.
A Captain Defined by Courage
Perhaps the greatest reflection of Jane’s character has been her ability to overcome adversity.
During the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she helped captain South Africa to a historic Round of 16 appearance, Jane suffered a serious injury against Argentina that forced her to leave the tournament early.
The setback kept her sidelined for nearly 10 months, but instead of allowing the challenge to define her, she fought her way back through rehabilitation and determination.
Her return to football saw her join TS Galaxy Queens in 2025, where she regained match fitness and once again became a central figure in the Banyana Banyana setup.
The Mission Continues: Defending Africa’s Crown
For Jane, 150 caps is not the end of the journey — it is another chapter.
Her attention has already shifted towards leading South Africa at the 2026 WAFCON tournament in Morocco, where Banyana Banyana will arrive as defending champions.
The challenge will be enormous, with South Africa aiming to retain their continental crown while also chasing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
“The journey itself has been an interesting one, full of ups and downs, but overall I am grateful for the experience,” Jane said.
From Kliptown to international stadiums around the world, Refiloe Jane’s story represents far more than football. It is a story of ambition, resilience, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to representing South Africa.
At 150 caps and counting, Fifinho’s legendary journey is far from over.
