Banyana Banyana head coach Dr Desiree Ellis is expected to announce her final squad on Friday, 17 July, for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as South Africa prepares for the continental status in Morocco.
The tournament will run from 26 July to 16 August and will feature an expanded field of 16 teams. Ellis is expected to trim her recently announced 31-player preliminary squad to the final travelling group before the team departs for Morocco.
South Africa will head into the tournament carrying the confidence of having lifted their maiden WAFCON title in Morocco in 2022, when they defeated hosts Morocco 2-1 in a memorable final to become African champions for the first time.
However, the road back to Morocco has not been smooth.
Banyana endured a disappointing title defence at last year’s WAFCON, where they failed to retain the trophy and finished in fourth place after losing the bronze medal match. The campaign was overshadowed by off-field challenges that threatened to derail the team’s preparations.
One of the biggest controversies involved delayed payments to players, with reports emerging that bonuses and other financial commitments had not been settled on time. The uncertainty created unnecessary distractions during the tournament and drew criticism from players, supporters and football stakeholders.
The national team also experienced instability on the coaching front. After guiding Banyana Banyana to historic success in 2022, Desiree Ellis’ contract expired and was not immediately renewed, raising doubts about her future with the national team. The uncertainty lasted for several months before the South African Football Association (SAFA) eventually reappointed the four-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year, allowing her to continue building the team towards the 2026 WAFCON. Her return restored stability and continuity within the squad.
Since then, Ellis has focused on rebuilding the team through international friendlies, introducing younger players while maintaining the experienced core that delivered South Africa’s greatest success. Veteran stars such as Thembi Kgatlana, Linda Motlhalo, Andile Dlamini and Bambanani Mbane are expected to form the backbone of the final squad, alongside several exciting emerging talents.
The 2026 edition presents another opportunity for Banyana Banyana to prove they remain among Africa’s elite women’s football nations. With Ellis back at the helm and greater stability surrounding the team, expectations are high that South Africa can once again challenge for continental honours.
Friday’s squad announcement will reveal the players entrusted with carrying the country’s hopes as Banyana Banyana aim to erase the disappointment of last year’s campaign and mount another serious bid for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown in Morocco.