Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis has named a strong squad for next month’s friendly internationals against Malawi, in Johannesburg on 5 and 8 April, 2025.
The twin international series will be played as part of the Sasol-sponsored South African senior women’s national team’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title defence preparations, as the countdown continues to the continental tournament to be hosted in Morocco from 5-26 July 2025.
Following a successful camp in Johannesburg last month, where a youthful Banyana Banyana side secured back-to-back wins over Lesotho, Ellis has recalled the core of the group that travelled to Jamaica to play in the Caribbean tropical maritime island in November 2024.
Young JVW FC goalkeeper Casey Gordon has earned her first senior call-up after impressing in a goalkeeper mini-camp, while veteran Mpumi Nyandeni (37) makes a return to the national setup. US-based defender Shakira O’Malley, who made her debut against Jamaica, has also been recalled, while TP Mazembe forward Kgaelebane Mohlakoana returns after an extended absence.
But the squad will be without several key players due to injury, including Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, and Wendy Shongwe. Former captain Refiloe Jane also remains unavailable as she continues her return to full fitness after signing with TS Galaxy Queens in the Hollywoodbets Super League.
Dr Ellis acknowledged the importance of these fixtures in fine-tuning her squad for the continental showpiece in Morocco later this year. “There are more names we could have added, but let’s focus on the young players as we haven’t seen enough of them.”
“It’s going to be a very good challenge for us over two legs.”
Banyana Banyana Head Coach, Dr Desiree Ellis
Nozipho Mbatha, Sasol Senior Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorship: “Each time our players are called up to the national team, it’s not just an opportunity to represent our country – it’s an opportunity to showcase their incredible talent on a global stage.”
“A heartfelt congratulations to every player for reaching this significant milestone and for continuing to inspire us all through their dedication and skill.”
Sasol Senior Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorship, Nozipho Mbatha
“We also wish to commend the coach and her technical team for working relentlessly to build a strong and competitive squad. As we prepare for WAFCON, this is the perfect moment for our players to refine their skills, gain valuable experience, and prove themselves against top-tier competition,” said Mbatha.
“At Sasol, we remain steadfast in our commitment to support and empower our women footballers as they continue to ‘Live the Impossible’ and leave their mark on the international stage.”
The team will assemble for camp in early April ahead of the two matches against the Malawians.
Original Copy: SAFA, with editing by gsport
Main Photo Caption: SABC presenter (from left) Vusiwe Ngcobo, Banyana Banyana head Coach, Dr Desiree Ellis, and SABC Sport presenter Lonwabo Nkohla pictured in studio during coach Ellis’s announcement of the squad for intention friendlies against Malawi early April, 2025. Photo: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: The international-rich Banyana Banyana squad for the twin international friendlies against Malawi early in April. Graphic: SAFA
Photo 3 Caption: Vusiwe Ngcobo, Banyana Banyana head Coach, Dr Desiree Ellis, and Lonwabo Nkohla pictured in studio. Photo: Supplied
