Banyana Banyana Set for Algeria Double-Header in Durban as WAFCON 2026 Preparations Intensify
South Africa women’s national soccer team are ramping up their preparations for the upcoming continental showpiece after confirming two international friendly matches against Algeria women’s national football team in Durban next month.
The fixtures are scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 14 April and Friday, 17 April 2026 in Durban, although the exact venue is yet to be officially announced. These encounters come shortly after the confirmation of another high-profile friendly against Japan women’s national football team set for June, highlighting a busy international calendar for Banyana Banyana.
The friendlies form a key part of head coach Desiree Ellis’ strategic build-up to the rescheduled CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026. The tournament will now take place from 25 July to 16 August 2026, giving teams additional time to fine-tune their squads.
Ellis emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum and exposing her players to diverse playing styles, especially following the delay of the tournament. Having recently faced Morocco women’s national football team, the coach believes Algeria will provide a different but equally demanding test.
According to Ellis, Algeria’s physical approach combined with their strength in counter-attacking situations will challenge Banyana Banyana in new ways. She stressed that such varied opposition is essential to ensure the team can adapt quickly during WAFCON, where tactical flexibility often proves decisive.
Banyana Banyana are ramping up their preparations for the upcoming friendly matches against Algeria in Durban next month (Image SAFA.net)
South Africa has already learned their fate for the continental competition, having been drawn in a competitive Group B alongside Ivory Coast , Burkina Faso and Tanzania. Meanwhile, Algeria will compete in Group A with Morocco, Senegal and Kenya, setting up potential high-stakes clashes later in the tournament.
In preparation for the upcoming friendlies, Ellis has named a 24-player squad, largely retaining the core group that recently featured in the COSAFA Women’s Championship camp. However, four notable players – Sibulele Holweni, Bongeka Gamede, Thembi Kgatlana and Jessica Wade – have been ruled out due to medical reasons.
The squad is expected to assemble for camp on Monday, 6 April before travelling to Durban, where they will begin final preparations for the two-match series.
With WAFCON 2026 fast approaching, these fixtures offer Banyana Banyana a crucial opportunity to sharpen their tactics, build cohesion, and maintain competitive rhythm against quality international opposition.