Desiree Ellis to name squad as Banyana Banyana build toward 2026 WAFCON

Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis is set to announce her squad for next month’s international friendlies, marking another important step in South Africa’s preparations for a demanding year in women’s football.

The announcement will take place on Wednesday at the SABC Studios in Johannesburg, where Ellis will reveal the players selected to represent the national team. These fixtures are expected to provide a valuable opportunity to test tactical variations, assess squad depth, and give emerging talents a chance to gain international experience.

Importantly, the friendlies form part of Ellis’s broader strategy to prepare for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently confirmed that the tournament has been rescheduled and will now be staged from 25 July to 16 August 2026. With continental glory and global ambitions on the horizon, Ellis is determined to use every available opportunity to sharpen her team and ensure Banyana Banyana remain competitive at the highest level.

By combining seasoned internationals with promising newcomers, Ellis aims to build a squad capable of sustaining success while adapting to new challenges. The upcoming fixtures will serve as crucial preparation, laying the foundation for South Africa’s pursuit of continental dominance and global recognition.