Banyana Banyana name squad to fine-tune 2026 WAFCON preparations with friendly in Morocco

STAR forward Thembi Kgatlana is a notable omission in the Banyana Banyana for the 26-player squad that was unveiled on Saturday for the international friendly against Morocco in Rabat on Tuesday, December 2.

The game is a crucial component of the team’s preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.

The squad announcement comes following a successful qualification campaign, in which South Africa edged out the Democratic Republic of Congo with a 1-0 victory in the second leg qualifier, securing a place in next year’s continental showpiece with a 2-1 aggregate win.

The squad will assemble in Johannesburg on Monday before departing for Morocco on Friday.

The latest squad features an exciting blend of both local and international talents, encapsulating the evolution of women’s football in South Africa.

Newcomers goalkeeper Casey Gordon and midfielder Michelle Sampson are stepping into the spotlight, seizing further chances to showcase their abilities on an international stage.

This friendly match will allow the coaching staff to assess player performances and make necessary adjustments to improve the team’s capabilities before facing top-tier teams in the continental championship.

The Banyana Banyana squad:

Goalkeepers: Casey Gordon (JVW FC), Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Dineo Magagula (TS Galaxy FC)

Defenders: Lebohang Ramalepe, Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, Asanda Hadebe (all Sundowns), Fikile Magama, Unathi Simayile, Antonia Maponya (all UWC), Sibahle Mneli (TS Galaxy FC)

Midfielders: Bongeka Gamede (Nordsjaelland), Jessica Wade, Regina Mogolola, Bongiwe Thusi (all JVW FC), Linda Motlhalo (Glasgow City), Isabella Ludwig, Noxolo Cesane (both Sundowns), Refiloe Jane (TS Galaxy FC), Amogelang Motau (Club Tijuana), Michelle Sampson (University of Fort Hare).

Forwards: Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Nthabiseng Majiya (both Sundowns), Nobahle Mdelwa (University of Johannesburg), Bonolo Mokoma (JVW FC), Kwezi Khoza (Durban Ladies).