Desiree Ellis, the coach of South Africa’s women’s national team, has announced her squad for the country’s first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup, taking place in France from June 7 to July 7. The roster features a mix of experienced campaigners and new faces, highlighting South Africa’s ambition on the global stage.
The squad includes key players who helped the team finish as runners-up at the last Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, such as captain Janine Van Wyk, who brings 166 caps, and striker Thembi Kgatlana, the reigning African Player of the Year. Two players, Mapaseka Mpuru and Bongeka Gamede, have earned their first call-ups, signaling the team’s willingness to integrate fresh talent alongside seasoned internationals.
South Africa has been drawn into Group B, where they will face Germany, Spain, and China in the group stage, presenting a challenging path in their debut World Cup campaign.
Goalkeepers: Andile Dlamini (Sundowns), Kaylin Swart (Golden Stars), Mapaseka Mpuru (University of Pretoria)
Defenders: Lebogang Ramalepe (Polokwane), Nothando Vilakazi (Lithuania), Noko Matlou (Polokwane), Janine Van Wyk (Joburg), Bambanani Mbane (Bloemfontein), Bongeka Gamede (CT), Tiisetso Makhubela (Joburg)
Midfielders: Refiloe Jane, Mamello Makhabane, Karabo Dlamini (Joburg), Leandra Smeda (Sweden), Kholosa Biyana (Durban), Busisiwe Ndimeni (Pretoria), Sibulele Holweni (PE), Linda Motlhalo (China)
Forwards: Rhoda Mulaudzi, Amanda Mthandi (Joburg), Thembi Kgatlana (China), Jermaine Seoposenwe (Lithuania), Ode Fulutudilu (Spain)
With a balanced squad of experienced leaders and emerging talent, Ellis will look to make a strong impression in their maiden World Cup appearance, aiming to challenge the established powers in Group B and advance South Africa’s presence on the international stage.
