Refiloe Jane has raised eyebrows with a striking statement ahead of South Africa’s opening fixture at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The experienced midfielder, who played a key role in Banyana Banyana’s triumphant 2022 campaign, will once again lead her nation’s charge as they return to defend their continental crown.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Jane offered a candid assessment of the task ahead, acknowledging the stiff challenge her side faces in their first match.
“This is obviously our first match of the tournament, and it’s going to be very difficult,” she stated. “It’s a completely different team, but we are ready and we hope to do even better together.”
Her words, though intended to reflect realism and readiness, have stirred anxiety among South African supporters and even some teammates, with the midfielder’s tone interpreted as both a warning and a rallying cry.
South Africa begin their title defence on Monday at 16:00 GMT against Ghana at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, setting the stage for a heavyweight clash between two of the continent’s traditional powerhouses in women’s football.
Jane’s comments highlight the respect with which Ghana is regarded in the South African camp, with the midfielder careful not to underestimate the quality and evolution of their opening opponents.
While South Africa carries the tag of reigning champions, Jane made it clear that past accolades hold little value without consistent performance in the present.
Her statement also signals the changing landscape of African women’s football. Teams are evolving rapidly, with tactical improvements and increased player development narrowing the gap between established contenders and emerging sides.
South Africa, while proud of their status, are not underestimating the growing competition.
Coach Desiree Ellis has retained a core of players from the historic 2022 squad, including Jane, in a bid to replicate the team’s previous success.
However, the squad also features new faces looking to make their mark on the continental stage. The blend of experience and youth will be crucial in navigating the demands of what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament.
Ghana, South Africa’s first hurdle, arrive at the finals with renewed ambition and a deep pool of talent. The Black Queens have traditionally been one of the strongest sides in African women’s football, and they will be eager to disrupt South Africa’s title defence from the very start.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, the spotlight remains firmly on Jane, whose words have set the tone for what could be a tense and thrilling group stage campaign.
Her message is clear: the journey to retaining the title will not be easy, but the team is focused, prepared, and eager to rise to the challenge.
Monday’s clash in Oujda promises to be a defining moment in Group B, with both nations eyeing early momentum in a tournament expected to deliver high drama, technical quality, and fierce competition from the outset.
