South Africa’s women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, are ramping up their preparations ahead of their highly anticipated international friendlies against Malawi.
The matches, scheduled for Saturday, 5 April, and Tuesday, 8 April, at the UJ Soweto Campus, form a crucial part of the team’s build-up to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) set to take place in July 2025.
Boost
Under the guidance of head coach Dr Desiree Ellis, the squad continues to fine-tune their tactical and physical readiness.
The team received a boost with the arrival of Jermaine Seoposenwe, while Hilda Magaia is expected to join on Thursday, after experiencing travel delays due to adverse weather conditions in the United States.
Dr Ellis acknowledged the challenge posed by Malawi, despite uncertainties regarding their squad selection.
“We do not have control over who the opponents select as part of their team,” said Ellis.
“We will prepare the way we prepare. Malawi have shown their mettle at COSAFA and have grown really well. They are a force to be reckoned with, showing both their physicality and tactical evolution. We will take nothing for granted.” said Ellis
These two fixtures will allow the technical team to assess player combinations, improve match fitness, and strengthen team chemistry ahead of the continental tournament. The friendlies will also mark the farewell of two Banyana Banyana legends.
Veteran defender Noko Matlou, who has been an integral part of the national team setup for nearly two decades, will retire from international football after these matches. In addition, Nompumelelo Nyandeni is set to earn her 150th cap, placing her among the most-capped players in South African women’s football history, alongside Janine van Wyk (185 caps) and Matlou (176 caps).
Injuries
Meanwhile, few regulars like Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dlhamini and Wendy Shongwe are nursing injuries and were not considered for selection. Refiloe Jane was not selected after she recently returned to local football, She signed with Hollywoodbets Super League side TS Galaxy Queens.
Banyana Banyana will continue daily training sessions at UJ Auckland Park in the final stretch of their preparations. With the countdown to WAFCON well underway, these matches against Malawi offer a valuable test as South Africa aims to defend their continental crown.
IOL Sport