Desiree Ellis names Banyana final squad for Serbia friendly
Banyana Banyana mentor Desiree Ellis has named her final squad that will take on Serbia in an international friendly on Monday, 10 April 2023.
South Africa are set to travel to Serbia on 6 April. They face the European side as part of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup preparations.
Ellis announced her 23-woman squad that will lock horns with Serbia. She had initially picked 32 players provisional squad on Friday, 31 March 2023.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE GAME AGAINST SERBIA
The mandate from SAFA, from the beginning, has always been to provide the team with adequate preparation. The idea is to give Banyana competitive friendly matches to prepare them for what lies ahead at the World Cup.
Ellis described Serbia, ranked 35th globally, as a formidable opponent to play against, both physically and on the ball.
However, the three-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year seems to be ready for the mammoth task that lies ahead.
With the World Cup around the corner [20 July – 20 August]. The three-time CAF WAFCON winning coach and her troops will look to use this game to perfect their tactical approach for the World Cup.
BANYANA FULL SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Regirl Ngobeni.
Defender: Karabo Dhlamini, Fikile Magama, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Noko Matlou Bambanani Mbane, Bongeka Gumede.
Midfielders: Refiloe Jane, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Kholosa Biyana, Nomvula Kgoale, Robyn Moodaly.
Forwards: Noxolo Cesane, Gabriela Salgado, Sphumelele Shamese, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Nthabiseng Majiya, Hildah Magaia, Lelona Daweti, Wendy Shongwe.
Ellis disclosed that the door is not closed for any player in the final selection of the World Cup.
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