As the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) draws closer, South Africa has revealed its 26-player squad for the tournament in Morocco.
While the absence of key forward Thembi Kgatlana due to “personal reasons” has left a notable gap in the team, coach Desiree Ellis has included several fresh faces, signaling a blend of experience and youthful talent for their continental campaign.
The reigning African champions are set to defend their title, but Kgatlana’s withdrawal represents a significant setback for Ellis, who will now have to recalibrate her attack without one of the most dynamic players in the squad.
The Racing Louisville striker’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the forward line, forcing the coach to rely on other options to provide the necessary firepower.
However, Ellis has responded to this challenge by incorporating several young players from the local league into her squad. Among the most notable inclusions are 17-year-old Casey Gordon and Bonolo Mokoma, both from JVW FC.
Also making the cut are Adrielle Mibe (18) and Nthabiseng Majiya (21), all of whom represent the future of South African women’s football. Their inclusion indicates a clear intention to blend the experience of established players with the energy and potential of the next generation.
Despite these changes, South Africa’s core team remains largely unchanged, with key players who have been pivotal to the team’s success over recent years maintaining their places.
Experienced players like goalkeepers Kaylin Swart and Andile Dlamini, along with midfield stalwarts Refiloe Jane and Linda Motlhalo, ensure that the team will still have a solid foundation.
Hildah Magaia, Jermaine Seoposenwe, and the ever-reliable Linda Motlhalo complete a squad with a balance of veteran leadership and emerging talent.
South Africa’s defensive stability will also be crucial in a tournament where the competition promises to be fierce. The inclusion of established defenders such as Lebohang Ramalepe and Banmbanani Mbane will offer the team a steadying presence at the back.
Furthermore, the presence of rising stars like Fikile Magama and Gabriela Salgado suggests the team is preparing for both the present and the future.
Group B, in which South Africa has been placed, will see them face Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania in the opening stages of the competition, which runs from July 5 to 26.
The draw presents both challenges and opportunities for Desiree Ellis’ side, who will be eager to build on their continental success and continue their dominance in African women’s football.
With a blend of seasoned internationals and exciting new talent, South Africa is poised to make an impact in Morocco. The squad’s composition indicates that, while Kgatlana’s absence is a setback, the team is far from lacking in quality and determination.
South Africa will be hoping that their mix of youth and experience can propel them to another successful campaign, despite the competitive nature of the tournament.
Complete List of the 26 Players Selected for 2024 Women’s AFCON:
Goalkeepers:
Kaylin Swart, Casey Gordon (JVW FC), Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns), Dineo Magagula (TS Galaxy)
Defenders:
Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Banmbanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini (Sundowns), Lonathemba Mhlongo, Fikile Magama (UWC), Gabriela Salgado (JVW)
Midfielders:
Bongeka Gamede (Nordsjælland, Norway), Sibulele Holweni (UWC), Linda Motlhalo (Glasgow City, Scotland), Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Noxolo Cesane (Sundowns), Refiloe Jane (TS Galaxy), Amogelang Motau (Tijuana, Mexico), Regina Mogolola (JVW)
Forwards:
Adrielle Mibe (UJ), Kgaelebane Mohlakoana (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Hildah Magaia (Tijuana, Mexico), Jermaine Seoposenwe (CF Monterrey, Mexico), Ronnel Donnelly (UWC), Bonolo Mokoma (JVW), Nthabiseng Majiya (Sundowns)
