JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – The hunt for South Africa’s next generation of football stars is officially underway. The South African Football Association (SAFA) has convened a high-stakes preliminary training camp this week, bringing together the nation’s most promising young talent to vie for a spot in the final Bantwana squad.
Running from March 1st to 5th, 2026, the camp serves as the critical first step in South Africa’s journey toward the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Provincial Talent on Display
The preliminary list features a heavy concentration of talent from Gauteng, though the scouting net has successfully captured standout performers from across the country, including KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape, and Mpumalanga.
With only a few weeks remaining before the competitive action begins, these players are being put through their paces to prove they have the tactical discipline and physical stamina required for international football.
Key Fixture: South Africa vs. Central African Republic
The intensity of the current camp is fueled by a looming deadline. South Africa is scheduled to face the Central African Republic (CAR) in the first round of the African Qualifiers this April.
- First Leg: April 10–12, 2026 (Away)
- Second Leg: April 17–19, 2026 (Home)
Success in this two-legged tie is essential for Bantwana to progress toward the final qualifying rounds, where only four African nations (plus hosts Morocco) will secure a ticket to the global showpiece.
Preliminary Squad List (March 1–5 Camp)
Goalkeepers:
Dakalo Mafumo (Gauteng), Skyla Coutinho (Gauteng), Samkelisiwe Mthembu (Gauteng), Snethemba Lekhuleni (Mpumalanga).
Defenders:
Ntokozo Paradzayi (Gauteng), Katlego Mohale (Gauteng), Andisiwe Zuma (KZN), Mpondo Mamonyana (North West), Farah Thomas (Western Cape), Esam Ngqumshe (Eastern Cape), Snenhlanhla Dutywa (Gauteng), Akhona Simamane (KZN), Alwande Mbatha (KZN), Nonhlanhla Nkosi (Gauteng), Jazz Netshilaphala (Gauteng), Laiqa Abdul Ganie (Gauteng).
Midfielders:
Katleho Malebana (Gauteng), Okuhle Sithole (KZN), Courtney Jacobs (Gauteng), Zanele Kunyamane (Gauteng).
Forwards:
Rethabile Molefe (Gauteng), Lisakhanya Situlweni (Western Cape), Aaliyah Jacobs (Western Cape), Khwezi Khoza (KZN), Dazel Mkhari (Limpopo), Titelo Modika (Gauteng), Leonay Kock (Northern Cape), Pulane Moloi (Free State).
What’s Next for Bantwana?
Following the conclusion of this camp on March 5th, the coaching staff is expected to trim the roster to a core group that will enter final preparations for the April qualifiers. After a period of growth in the local Hollywoodbets Super League and various regional academies, expectations are high for this crop of U17 players to return South Africa to the world stage.
