South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, the reigning champions of Africa, are back to defend their crown at WAFCON 2024 in Morocco. After a historic title win in 2022, the pressure is on Desiree Ellis and her new-look squad to prove that their golden moment wasn’t a one-off.
But with star player Thembi Kgatlana absent and veteran Jermaine Seoposenwe preparing for her final tournament, this campaign will be about both legacy and evolution.
👑 The Champions Return
South Africa made history in 2022, beating Morocco 2-1 in front of a hostile crowd to win their first-ever WAFCON title. It was a moment that transformed women’s football in the country and gave Banyana Banyana the belief they needed to become a continental force.
Their path to Morocco 2024 has been steady, though not without challenges. They’ve faced strong opposition in Olympic qualifiers and international friendlies, testing the squad’s depth and character.
🔥 Recent Form
Since lifting the title, Banyana Banyana have remained competitive. While they missed Olympic qualification earlier this year, the team’s core remains solid, with a healthy blend of experience and youth. Their attacking identity, midfield creativity, and defensive discipline are all intact.
Coach Desiree Ellis has used the last two years to blood younger talent, with key players moving abroad and gaining top-level experience.
👥 Key Players to Watch
🎯 Hilda Magaia (Forward)
Scorer of both goals in the 2022 final, Magaia returns as the team’s primary attacking outlet. Her speed, composure, and work rate make her a constant threat.
🎨 Linda Motlhalo (Midfield)
Known as the “Randfontein Maestro,” Motlhalo is Banyana’s creative heartbeat. She links play with elegance and is often involved in build-up and set-pieces.
🚀 Kgaelebane Mohlakoana (Winger)
One of the breakout stars of recent friendlies, Mohlakoana offers pace and skill down the flanks. Expect her to shine in Morocco.
🛡️ Bambanani Mbane (Defender)
A reliable figure in defense, Mbane brings calmness and leadership. She’s expected to lead a slightly younger backline this time around.
🧠 The Coach: Desiree Ellis
Desiree Ellis has been at the helm of South Africa’s women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, since 2016. A former captain and midfielder, Ellis transformed the team into continental champions by leading them to their first-ever WAFCON title in 2022. Known for her leadership, tactical acumen, and focus on team unity, she guided South Africa to the knockout stages of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup—a historic achievement. As WAFCON 2024 approaches, Ellis aims to defend their crown and further establish South Africa as a powerhouse in African women’s football, blending experienced stars with emerging talents.
📋 Group C Fixtures
🇿🇦 South Africa vs Ghana 🇬🇭
📅 Monday, 7 July 2025
📍 Stade Honneur, Oujda
🕘 21:00 (GMT+1)
🇿🇦 South Africa vs Mali 🇲🇱
📅 Friday, 11 July 2025
📍 Stade Honneur, Oujda
🕖 19:00 (GMT+1)
🇿🇦 South Africa vs Tanzania 🇹🇿
📅 Monday, 14 July 2025
📍 Stade Berkane, Berkane
🕖 19:00 (GMT+1)
🎯 Expectations
As defending champions, South Africa are expected to top their group and reach at least the semifinals. But without Thembi Kgatlana, there’s added pressure on players like Magaia and Motlhalo to deliver. A second straight title would not only be a historic achievement but a clear statement that Banyana Banyana are Africa’s new queens of consistency.
🔮 Final Word
The challenge is different this time. In 2022, Banyana were chasing history. In 2024, they are defending it. With stars stepping aside and others rising, this could be a defining tournament for the next era of South African women’s football.
