Out-of-contract Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis playing advisory role in WAFCON qualifiers
Assistant coach of the Banyana Banayana, Thinasonke Mbuli has confirmed Desiree Ellis’ role in the 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations qualifiers amid protracted contract saga with the South African Football Association (SAFA).
The Banyana Banyana are currently without a substantive coach in their pursuit of a WAFCON slot.
Mbuli led the team in the first leg tie against DR Congo, where both teams settled for a 1-1 draw at Kinshasa last week.. The return clash has been scheduled for Tuesday at the FNB Stadium, with victory crucial to securing qualification for both teams.
In an interview, Mbuli highlighted Desiree Ellis role in the Banyana Banyana’s WAFCON qualification despite being out of contract.
“To be honest obviously the coach is the leader of the team, but she came to see us before we went to the airport on Sunday [last week],” said Mbuli on iDiskiTimes.
“So, she has been in contact with us. I just got a text from her now this morning just to say she’s still with us and we discuss training, we discuss everything. She’s still very much part of this group.”
With the team at full strength, Mbuli will be hoping his outfit wrap up qualification on home turf this evening.
