South Africa goalkeeper Kaylin Swart has expressed optimism and determination ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, as the reigning champions prepare to defend their crown in Morocco starting July 5.
Speaking from Oujda, where the Banyana Banyana are in camp, Swart acknowledged the emotional resonance of returning to the country where South Africa lifted their first-ever WAFCON title in 2022.
Now, the team is eager to rekindle that success.
“We are very excited to be here because it is familiar territory for us. We hope to do it again, like in 2022,” Swart told the South African Football Association’s official website.
The upcoming tournament marks a new chapter, and Swart insists the team is ready to write another story of triumph.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper, who was instrumental in South Africa’s title-winning campaign two years ago, remains focused yet realistic about the challenges that lie ahead.
“We now have to write a new book, and there is still a lot to do, but if we could repeat history, that would be great. It won’t be easy, but 2024 could be a very good chapter for us,” she said.
Preparation has been the Banyana Banyana’s top priority in recent weeks, with a training camp designed to fine-tune tactics and build cohesion.
Swart believes the team is close to hitting full stride before their opening match and stressed the importance of clarity and execution on the pitch.
“We just need to dot the i’s and cross the t’s so that in our first match we know exactly what we need to do, and obviously, we want a positive result. That’s what we’re working on,” she explained.
South Africa’s squad is nearly at full strength.
The recent arrival of experienced forward Jermaine Seoposenwe has added further depth and leadership to the group, while only Kgaelebane Mohlakoana remains expected to report to camp.
The 2024 WAFCON presents a fresh challenge for Desiree Ellis’s side, with expectations now heightened after their previous triumph.
However, with a core of seasoned players and a clear hunger to replicate their past glory, South Africa’s Banyana Banyana appear more than ready to defend their continental crown.
