Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) holders Banyana Banyana have taken another decisive step in their quest to defend their continental crown, with head coach Dr Desiree Ellis cutting her preliminary squad down to 28 players ahead of next month’s showpiece in Morocco.
The reigning African champions, who lifted the title in 2022 under Ellis’ guidance are looking to cement their dominance on the continent once more.
This time, they return to Morocco – the very country where they were crowned – with history and expectation riding on their shoulders.
Africa will be watching closely as Banyana begin their final preparations.
The trimmed squad will assemble in Johannesburg on 19 June, where 24 players will begin an intensive training camp. They’ll be joined later by four overseas-based players still tied to club commitments.
Notably absent from the upcoming camp is former CAF Women’s Footballer of the Year, Thembi Kgatlana.
Hildah Magaia, another key figure in Banyana’s historic 2022 run, is still undergoing medical checks and will report to camp once cleared.
The final 23-player squad will be announced on 23 June before the team jets off to Oujda, their base during the group stage.
South Africa open their Group C campaign against Ghana on 7 July, followed by clashes with Tanzania (11 July) and Mali (14 July).
The CAF WAFCON 2024 kicks off on 5 July in Rabat with hosts Morocco facing Zambia in the opener.
South Africa Provisional CAF WAFCON Morocco 2024 Provisional Squad:
Goalkeepers:
Kaylin Swart, Andile Dlamini, Dineo Magagula, Casey Gordon
Defenders:
Lebohang Ramalepe, Fikile Magama, Shakira O’Malley, Gabriela Salgado, Tiisetso Makhubela, Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Bongeka Gamede,
Midfielders
Sibulele Holweni, Linda Mothlalo, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Refiloe Jane, Amogelang Motau, Regina Mogolola, Noxolo Cesane, Michelle Sampson, Adrielle Mibe, Kgalebane Mohlakoana
Forwards:
Hildah Magaia, Jermaine Seopesenwe, Nthabiseng Majiya, Bonolo Mokoma, Ronnel Donnely
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