Banyana Banyana confirm starting XI for Madagascar Olympic qualifier

Banyana Banyana have named their starting line-up for the second leg of their 2028 LA Olympic Games Qualifiers second-round tie against Madagascar at Free State Stadium.

Desiree Ellis’ side hold a commanding 4-0 advantage from last week’s first leg and are seeking to secure progress to the third round. Ronnel Donnelly led the attack in that match and scored a hat-trick as the 2022 African champions defeated the Malagasy side.

The return fixture will begin at 18:00 at the same venue, with supporters permitted to attend this time. Madagascar had requested that no fans be allowed into the stadium for the opening match because it was officially their home fixture.

Ellis made several changes for the first meeting, selecting a relatively youthful team. The more experienced members of the squad could now feature from the start, after most either missed the first leg or were introduced as second-half substitutes.

There has also been one change to the squad since the opening match. Mamelodi Sundowns forward Lelona Daweti has joined the group after Bonolo Mokoma of JVW FC was ruled out through injury.

Banyana Banyana will be wary of any complacency despite their substantial lead. The team has missed the past two Olympic Games and still faces three qualifying rounds after this tie if they are to reach the tournament.

The Olympic campaign is also providing Ellis with an early assessment of the squad before the first round of the FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying playoffs in November.

Banyana Banyana’s starting XI is:

Swart, Zondi, Pila, Mhlongo, Maponya, Gamede, Motau, Cesane, Moodaly-Salgado, Magaia, Kgatlana

Substitutes: Dlamini, Moletsane, Magama, Dhlamini, Qashani, October, Motlhalo, Daweti, Donnelly