Banyana Banyana mentor Desiree Ellis has announced a 36-woman preliminary squad for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup due to be held in Australia and New Zealand.
The eagerly-awaited Women’s World Cup tournament will start from July 20 until August 20.
According to SAFA Ellis’ charges will report to camp in Johannesburg on 12 June 2023.
The players will be expected to give all their best to impress the three-time CAF Women’s of the Year before she names her final squad later this month.
SELECTING THE SQUAD WAS NOT EASY TASK FOR DESIREE ELLIS
The coach noted that selecting the squad was something difficult since taking over the coaching reigns as the Banyana coach.
“It’s most probably one of the most difficult selections I’ve ever had to make,” Ellis told SAFA’s media department.
“As a coach, you always say players must raise their hand and make it difficult. And it has been very difficult [selecting the preliminary squad].
“Congratulations to the players that have made the preliminary squad. We are always saying players must raise their hands, and many of them have raised their hands.”
The Banyana coach continued: “But this is the group of players that we think we can select from, and they have raised their hands.
“We are going to do a final selection as well as announce the final 23 plus three. That is even going to be more difficult. But this is the group of players that we think will do the job for us.”
JANINE VAN WYK HAS WITHDRAWN FROM BANYANA BANYANA SQUAD
On a sad note, Banyana’s highest-capped player, Janine van Wyk, had to be withdrawn from the squad preliminary list due to an injury.
Van Wyk has over 180 caps for Banyana. The highly experienced defender appreciated coach Ellis to have considered her for the preliminary squad as she confirmed her injury.
“I have sustained an injury. And I personally feel would impact my chances of performing at the highest level that is required to make the World Cup squad,” said Van Wyk.
“I have to turn down the call-up with a heavy heart. But also knowing that I am doing what is best for the team.”
BANYANA BANYANA PRELIMINARY FULL SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Regirl Ngobeni, Kebotseng Moletsane, Asa Rabalao
DEFENDERS
Asande Hadebe, Karabo Dhlamini, Fikile Magama, Cimone Sauls, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Noko Matlou, Bambani Mbane, Bongeka Gamede
MIDFIELDERS
Thubelihle Shamase, Kholosa Biyana, Thalea Smidt, Refiloe Jane, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Robyn Moodaly, Amogelang Motau
FORWARDS
Nicole Michael, Gabriela Salgado, Sphumelele Shamase, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Noxolo Cesane, Melinda Kgadiete, Nthabiseng Majiya, Lelona Daweti, Wendy Shongwe, Ntombifikile Ndlovu, Hildah Magaia, Thembi Kgatlana.
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