Ellis is hoping new faces will make an impression
BANYANA Banyana will start plotting their Cosafa Cup title defence with an untried squad since several national team players have landed overseas contracts.
The latest Banyana player to wing her way abroad is midfielder Noko Matlou who has signed for the Spanish top-flight outfit Eibar. There she will join Banyana teammate Thembi Kgatlana.
Banyana’s squad of 27 will report for a camp this morning in Johannesburg where the team will work out until next Monday. The squad includes several new faces to make up for the loss of the overseas-based players.
Banyana coach Desiree Ellis is hoping many of the new faces will make an impression at training this week and help to kickstart a new generation of national team players.
“I am excited that players are leaving and there are more and more opportunities opening up every day,” said Ellis.
“We last got together in March, so we will get an opportunity to look at players and give others an opportunity as well.
“The camp will also allow us to analyse which players raise their hands for the final selection.”
The tournament will mark the first women’s football internationals in Africa since the Covid-19 pandemic brought all activities to a screeching halt in March. Moreover, it will help Ellis to keep the national squad in shape for continental engagements in February and March. “In the past, the Cosafa Cup has really helped us to prepare for games and for upcoming tournaments,” said Ellis. “This will be the purpose of the camp and to select a squad for the Cosafa Cup.”
The tournament will take place at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium from 3-14 November, behind closed doors due to Covid-19 restrictions. Eight teams will compete in two groups of four, and the top two teams will qualify for the semi-finals.
The draw to decide the group composition will be done today.
Banyana squad, goalkeepers: Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Jessica Williams, Kaydee Windvogel
Defenders: Bongeka Gamede, Tiisetso Makhubela, Karabo Makhurubetshi, Xiluva Tshabalala, Lebogang Mabatle, Koketso Tlailane, Ongeziwe Ndlangisas
Midfielders: Mamello Makhabane, Karabo Dhlamini, Nomvula Kgoale, Robyn Moodaly, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Neliswa Luthuli, Sibulele Holweni, Oratile Mokwena, Gabriela Salgado, Kgaelebane Mohlakoane
Strikers: Hilda Magala, Nthite Pride, Nomsa Mathonsi, Mosili Mokhoali, Chantelle Esa, Ntombifikile Ndlovu