Desiree Ellis names 24-player Banyana Banyana squad for Algeria friendlies
Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has named a 24-player squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Algeria, a decision that highlights her strategy of combining seasoned internationals with emerging talent as South Africa prepares for a demanding year.
The matches are scheduled for Tuesday, 14 April, and Friday, 17 April, with the venue still to be confirmed. These fixtures are expected to provide Ellis with a valuable opportunity to experiment with tactical variations, assess squad depth, and give younger players a chance to gain international experience. For the reigning African champions, the focus is not solely on results but on building cohesion and refining their approach ahead of a busy calendar.
The Algeria friendlies also come shortly after the confirmation of another high-profile clash against Japan in June, ensuring that Banyana Banyana will be tested against contrasting styles of play. Algeria’s physical and disciplined approach will be followed by Japan’s technical and fast-paced game, offering Ellis and her squad a comprehensive preparation program.
Importantly, these matches form part of Ellis’s broader preparations for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently announced that the tournament has been rescheduled and will now take place from 25 July to 16 August 2026. With continental glory and global ambitions on the horizon, Ellis is using every opportunity to sharpen her team and ensure Banyana Banyana remain competitive at the highest level.
