Ellis Rings Changes as Banyana Squad for Japan Friendlies Signals WAFCON Intent
Desiree Ellis has unveiled her latest South Africa women’s national football team squad for next month’s international friendlies against Japan women’s national football team, with several notable adjustments as preparations intensify for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The two-match series in Osaka forms a crucial part of Banyana Banyana’s build-up to the delayed WAFCON tournament, which will take place in Morocco from 25 July to 16 August.
South Africa will face Japan on 6 June at the Nagai Ballgame Field before the teams meet again three days later at J-Green Sakai, also in Osaka.
The friendlies come at a critical stage in Banyana’s preparations ahead of the continental tournament, where South Africa have been drawn in Group B alongside Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast and Tanzania.
The competition will also serve as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, adding even greater importance to the upcoming fixtures against one of Asia’s strongest national teams.
Among the notable inclusions are senior figures such as Thembi Kgatlana, Linda Motlhalo, Refiloe Jane and goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, all of whom remain central to Ellis’ plans.
The squad also includes players like Gabriela Salgado, Wendy Shongwe and Nthabiseng Majiya as Banyana continue building depth ahead of a demanding international calendar.
Full Banyana Banyana Squad for Japan Friendlies
Goalkeepers:
Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Katlego Moletsane
Defenders:
Sinegugu Zondi, Fikile Magama, Bambanani Mbane, Antonia Maponya, Asanda Hadebe, Karabo Dhlamini, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Khutso Pila
Midfielders:
Linda Motlhalo, Refiloe Jane, Noxolo Cesane, Isabella Ludwig, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Bongeka Gamede
Forwards:
Wendy Shongwe, Nthabiseng Majiya, Thorisho Mphelo, Bonolo Mokoma, Thembi Kgatlana, Gabriela Salgado
Japan are expected to provide one of Banyana’s toughest tests before WAFCON, offering Ellis and her technical team an important opportunity to assess combinations, tactical structure and squad depth against elite opposition.
Desiree Ellis has unveiled Banyana Banyana’s squad for next month’s international friendlies against Japan (Image: Banyana Banyana)