Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has shared her thoughts on midfield maestro Linda Motlhalo, suggesting the experienced star does not receive the credit she deserves for her contribution to the national team.
The South African senior women’s national team recently concluded a successful two-match international friendlies against Algeria as they gear up for the CAF 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.
Banyana secured back-to-back wins over the North Africans, starting with a 1-0 victory at the Princess Magogo Stadium on Tuesday, 14 April, courtesy of an Nthabiseng Majiya strike. In the second leg on Friday afternoon, Ellis’ charges dominated with a 2-0 scoreline at King Zwelithini Stadium. Majiya was again on the scoresheet, followed by a goal from Shakira O’Malley to seal the result.
The friendly matches serve as vital preparation for the WAFCON, which has been rescheduled to run from July 25 to August 16, 2026, after being pushed back from its original March start date.
Motlhalo, who recently tasted silverware after lifting the Sky Sports Cup with Glasgow City FC in Scotland, has become a cornerstone of the Banyana setup.
DESIREE ELLIS EXPLAINS WHY SHE THINKS LINDA MOTLHALO IS NOT APPRECIATED
With 97 caps to her name, the 2022 WAFCON winner’s versatility has been a key asset for Ellis.
Despite her consistent performances, coach Ellis believes the public often misunderstood Motlhalo’s style of play.
“I think Linda has shown how she has matured over the years. Playing her as a 10, she demonstrates the quality that she possesses. Also, when playing her as a 6, she continues to showcase her skills,” said Ellis.
“I don’t think she’s appreciated enough. I believe that when people look at her, they expect her to run around and sprint. However, the quality she has on the ball means she doesn’t need to rely on that to get past players.”
DESIREE ELLIS IMPRESSED WITH LINDA MOTLHALO IN PLAYMAKER ROLE
Ellis was particularly impressed by Motlhalo’s display in the deep-lying playmaker role during the Algeria friendly matches, highlighting her press-resistance and tactical intelligence.
“It’s very difficult to take the ball away from Linda, and she does it with purpose. She doesn’t just perform her actions aimlessly; she draws other players in and plays forward effectively,” the coach explained.
“…People sometimes wonder why Linda can control the ball and everything as a six. She doesn’t give the ball away; she’s patient when she has the ball, and if she can’t go forward, she goes to the side to get it back again.”
Ellis concluded by reiterating that while other people may overlook the midfielder’s influence, her value within the camp is immeasurable.
“I don’t think she gets the credit that she deserves, but we know what she’s capable of, and we appreciate her more than anything,” she concluded.
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