South Africa announce squad for Morocco friendly as WAFCON preparations intensify

South Africa named their squad to face Morocco in an international friendly on 2 December as Banyana Banyana step up preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The fixture forms a key part of South Africa’s build-up to the continental tournament, which Morocco will host once again.

The teams share a recent competitive history, most notably the 2022 WAFCON final, where Banyana Banyana earned their first African title after a tightly contested battle in Rabat.

Head coach Desiree Ellis selected a group that blends continuity with fresh options.

She kept many players who contributed to the 2022 triumph but also introduced a few new faces to sharpen competition within the squad.

Ellis and her players will begin their training camp on Monday before travelling to Morocco for the fixture.

The friendly presents both sides with a valuable chance to assess their progress ahead of the tournament.

South Africa aim to fine-tune combinations and maintain momentum, while Morocco seek to measure themselves against the champions who denied them the title two years ago.

Below is the full squad named for the match:

Goalkeepers: Casey Gordon, Andile Dlamini, Dineo Magagula

Defenders: Lebohang Ramalepe, Fikile Magama, Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, Unathi Simayile, Sibahle Maneli, Antonia Maponya, Asanda Hadebe

Midfielders: Bongeka Gamede, Jessica Wade, Linda Motlhalo, Isabella Ludwig, Refiloe Jane, Amogelang Motau, Regina Mogolola, Noxolo Cesane, Michelle Sampson, Bongiwe Thusi, Nonhlanhla Mthandi

Forwards: Nobahle Mdelwa, Khwezi Khoza, Nthabiseng Majiya, Bonolo Mokoma

Sasol Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis names the team to face WAFCON hosts Morocco in an away international friendly match to be played in the North African country on Tuesday 2 December 2025.#LiveTheImpossible @SasolinSport @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/FgEYIxqZV3

— Sasol Banyana Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) November 22, 2025