Banyana coach drops several senior players for Australia clash 

Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has dropped several senior players as she announced her 23-member squad for the upcoming international friendly match against Australia. 

The much-awaited mouthwatering clash will be played in London on Saturday, 8 October 2022.

Several senior players who won the 2022 WAFCON tournament were dropped from the squad for various reasons. Banyana co-captain Janine van Wyk, midfielder Nomvula Kgoale, defender Lebo Ramalepe, goalkeeper Kaylin Swart, defender Noko Matlou are some of the prominent players omitted from the squad. 

However, the three-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year made it clear that the intention not to call some of the senior players is to give other players a chance to showcase what they can offer to the team ahead of the World Cup.

Banyana suffered an overall 9-0 defeat to Brazil in two international friendlies played at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Friday, 2 September, and at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Monday, 5 September 2022.

We also witnessed the return of the striker Gabriela Salgado and midfielder Sibulele Holweni. 

Meanwhile, the University of Johannesburg’s Dineo Magagula received her well-deserved call-up after her stellar performances at the 2022 Hollywoodbets COSAFA Women’s Championship.

Ellis has admitted that she still has lots of work to do before she perfects her side ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup due to be played in Australia and New Zealand next year.

The Banyana mentor understands well that the FIFA World Cup is way up from WAFCON and is happy that the prestigious tournament is not tomorrow. Therefore, it will give them time to get things done in time.

“This another opportunity to play against a top nation,” said Ellis 

“Australia are the co-hosts of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup along with New Zealand. Coming so soon after playing against Brazil gives us an opportunity to rectify our mistakes as well as test and challenge ourselves. 

“It is another opportunity for improved performance and for players to raise their hands.

“We are really looking forward to this fantastic game.”

BANYANA FULL SQUAD