Extra Time: Michael Madyira argues that Banyana Banyana has been given good enough preparation so that there are no excuses when defending their Wafcon title.
After missing out on the 2024 Olympics, Banyana Banyana now focuses on defending their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) title in Morocco in July 2025.
The South African Football Association (Safa) is preparing the team with a packed schedule.
They have a European tour in October, facing Denmark on the 25th in Aalborg and England on the 29th in Coventry.
Then in November and December, they head to the Caribbean for two matches against Jamaica on 29 November and 2 December.
Coach Desiree Ellis said: “These matches will test us in different ways. This is exactly the kind of preparation we need ahead of Wafcon next year.”
These high-profile games give Banyana an edge over other African teams.
More top friendlies are planned before Wafcon, setting the team apart from their continental rivals who rarely get such opportunities.
Banyana’s strength is bolstered by Mamelodi Sundowns players who recently toured the USA, two SA teams participating in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, and many overseas-based players in Ellis’ squad.
With this kind of preparation, there’s little room for failure in defending their continental crown.
The stage is set for Banyana to showcase their skills and maintain their status as Africa’s top women’s team.
Pictured above: Thembi Kgatlana and Refiloe Jane leading Banyana Banyana players at training.
Source: Banyana Banyana
