No Kgatlana, seniors will have to carry Banyana Banyana WAFCON hopes in Morocco

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2 days ago

Desiree Ellis Banyana coach Desiree Ellis will have to do without a few key players from the last tournament. Photo: AFP
Image: AFP
South Africa's title defence begins under different conditions, but the ambition remains the same: to return home with the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) trophy.
Banyana Banyana will once again be tested by the best on the continent, and with talisman Thembi Kgatlana not part of the squad, Desiree Ellis will be banking on a trusted core to carry the load.
It's a squad built on continuity — with 17 players returning from the 2022 triumph — but the pressure is heavier, and the margins thinner. Five players, in particular, will be central to whether Banyana can go all the way. Refiloe Jane – Captain, controller & conductor
One of three co-captains named by Ellis, Jane remains the metronome in midfield. Her intelligence and positional awareness make her more than just a playmaker — she's a tactical compass.
After missing last year's World Cup through injury, the 31-year-old returns with a point to prove and a title to defend.
When Banyana need to settle, build or recover, Jane is the one they'll look to. Her leadership and ability to read the game will be vital in navigating the group stages and beyond.
Kaylin Swart – The safe hands in goal
Goalkeeper Kaylin Swart of South Africa is expected top play a key role in Banyana's Wafcon defence. Photo: BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
While both Swart and Andile Dlamini were named in the final squad, it's the JVW goalkeeper who takes over as first-choice between the sticks this time around.
Swart has quietly worked her way into the No.1 jersey and now carries the weight of expectation heading into Morocco.
She'll be tasked with marshalling the defence and maintaining calm in high-pressure moments.
Her shot-stopping, command in the air, and distribution have improved significantly — and in a tournament where one mistake can end a campaign, Swart's form could prove decisive.
Linda Motlhalo – The creative key
Banyana Banyana's Linda Maserame Motlhalo scores a penalty during their 2022 Womens Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match against Zambia in Casablanca FILE - Banyana Banyana's Linda Maserame Motlhalo scores a penalty during their 2022 Womens Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match against Zambia in Casablanca. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix
Image: Backpagepix
Motlhalo is the one who adds rhythm and flair to Banyana's attack. Dubbed the 'Randfontein Ronaldinho', her ability to operate between the lines and deliver that final pass makes her irreplaceable.
She was a standout in Morocco over two years ago, and with Kgatlana absent, there'll be even more on her shoulders this time around.
If South Africa are going to create and convert chances, Motlhalo will almost certainly be involved. Whether from open play or set-pieces, she brings the x-factor.
Hildah Magaia – The Main Goal Threat
Banyana Banyana striker Hildah Magaia in action against Italy at the last world cup. Picture: Marty MELVILLE / AFP
Image: AFP
She scored the goals that sealed South Africa's first-ever WAFCON crown. Now, with Kgatlana unavailable, Magaia becomes the team's central goal threat.
The forward, who plies her trade in Mexico with Club Tijuana, has shown an ability to rise in big moments — and Ellis will need her to do it again.
Magaia thrives on movement, precision, and timing. If she finds early rhythm, she could end the tournament among the top scorers.
Bongeka Gamede – The Shield and Stabiliser
Bongeka Gamede of Banyana believes the women's senior national team are on the right track to defend their Wafcon title. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix