Desiree Ellis Names Banyana Banyana Squad For FIFA Women’s World Cup In France

Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has named her 23-woman squad for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.

Perhaps the biggest surprise omission was that of veteran midfielder Nompumelelo Nyandeni who was been part of the national team set-up for 17 years, racking up 149 appearances.

Ellis’ troops, that comprises of the bulk that won the 2018 Women’s COSAFA Championship in South Africa and finished second at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, will be making their debut at the global showpiece which will take place from 7 June – 7 July.

Full Squad:

Goalkeepers: Kaylin Swart, Amanda Dlamini, Mpuru Mapaseka

Defenders: Lebohang Ramalepe, Nothando Vilakazi, Noko Matlou, Janine Van Wyk

Midfielders: Bambanani Mbane, Bongeka Gamede, Tiisetso Makhubela, Refiloe Jane, Mamello Makhabane, Karabo Dhlamini, Leandra Smeda, Kholosa Biyana, Busisiwe Ndimeni

Attackers: Linda Motlhalo, Sibulele Holweni, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Rhoda Mulaudzi, Amanda Mthandi, Ode Fulutulidu, Thembi Kgatlana

South Africa have been drawn alongside Germany, Spain and China in Group B, and will open their World Cup campaign with a tough encounter against the Spaniards on Saturday, 8 June.