Johannesburg – The South African Women’s football team have everything to win, Mozambique have everything to lose, according to Banyana Banyana’s head coach Desiree Ellis.
Speaking ahead of their upcoming African Women Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifiers clash against The Les Mambas, Ellis said the team is upbeat for the match on Wednesday.
“The team had a light training session upon arrival on Monday afternoon, everyone is looking forward to the match on Wednesday,” says Ellis.
“We have to make sure we get a good start because the first leg is always vital,” she adds.
Banyana landed safely in Mozambique yesterday, as they prepare to take on the hosts for the first round of the qualifiers.
Ellis’s side took part in the COSAFA Cup earlier this month, where they suffered a humiliation loss to Malawi, that resulted in their knockout in the tournament.
Following disappointing results in the tournament, Ellis stressed that her team come to this Qualifiers with high hopes of advancing to the 2022 AWCON next year.
In a bid to reinforce the squad, Ellis announced that the team participating in the qualifiers, is at full strength with the return of top overseas players.
The AWCON will take place in Morocco between July and August 2022, after being previously cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The return leg between South Africa and Mozambique will be played on Tuesday, 26 October 2021 at Dobsonville Stadium.
Banyana Banyana squad for Mozambique AWCON qualifier
GOALKEEPERS:
1. Kaylin Swart (JVW FC)
2. Regirl Ngobeni (University of Western Cape)
DEFENDERS:
3. Lebohang Ramalepe (Dinamo Minsk)
4. Janine Van Wyk (JVW FC)
5. Tiisetso Makhubela (Tshwane University of Technology)
6. Bambanani Mbane (Mamelodi Sundowns FC )
7. Mandisa Faya (Lindelani Ladies FC)
8. Asanda Hadebe (Sunflower WFC)
MIDFIELDERS:
9. Sibulele Holweni (University of Western Cape)
10. Refiloe Jane (AC Milan)
11. Linda Motlhalo (Djurgarden FC)
12. Gabriela Salgado (JVW FC)
13. Noxolo Cesane (University of Western Cape)
14. Oratile Mokwena (Mamelodi Sundowns FC)
15. Robyn Moodaly (JVW FC)
FORWARDS
16. Hildah Magaia (Moron BK)
17. Melinda Kgadiete (Mamelodi Sundowns FC)
18. Thembi Kgatlana (Athletico Madrid)
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