Ellis names 38 player squad for packed 2026 schedule

February 4, 2026 26

Banyana Banyana coach, Dr Desiree Ellis, has named a 38-member squad for their upcoming COSAFA Women’s Championship and Women’s Africa Cup of Nations alignment camp.

The team will assemble on 13 February as preparations begin for the two tournaments to be played this year.

WAFCON is scheduled to take place in Morocco in April, while the COSAFA Women’s Championship will be hosted in Polokwane from 18 February to 1 March.

WAFCON will also double as a Women’s World Cup qualifier, with the top three teams securing automatic spots.

Ellis has included several overseas-based players as Banyana look to improve on their previous WAFCON campaign in Morocco, where they were eliminated by Nigeria in the semifinals.

Goalkeepers: Kaylin Swart, Andile Dlamini, Dineo Magagula, and Casey Gordon.

Defenders: Fikile Magama, Asanda Hadebe, Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, Shakira O’Malley, Sinegugu Zondi, Yolanda Nduli, Antonia Mponya, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Unathi Simayile, Khutso Pila, Sibahle Maneli, and Lebogang Ramalepe.

Midfielders: Gabriel Salgado, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Gugu Dhlamini, Sibulele Holweni, Zoe October, Thorisho Mphelo, Bongeka Gamede, Jessica Wade, Linda Motlhalo, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Refiloe Jane, Amogelang Motau, Regina Mogolola, Bongiwe Thusi, and Isabella Ludwig.

Forwards: Noxolo Cesane, Hildah Magaia, Thembi Kgatlana, Nthabiseng Majiya, Bonolo Mokoma, and Thato Mofola.

Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis has announced a 38-member squad in preparation for an alignment camp for the Cosafa Women’s Championship and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.#LiveTheImpossible @SasolinSport @shield_za @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/aWu3IeUf2u

— Sasol Banyana Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) February 4, 2026