Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has named a strong final 23-player squad for upcoming friendlies against USA as the national women's team return to action after a historic World Cup campaign.
Fresh off a history-making run at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand where the reigning African champions reached the knock-out stages at a World Cup for the first time in South African football history, Ellis' charges are now gearing up for back-to-back matches against the United States of America (USA).
READ | 'The whole of South Africa should be proud' - Ellis
Few surprises in the squad include the absence of captain Refiloe Jane who completed one match at the World Cup before suffering an unfortunate injury after a collision.
However, familiar faces in Thembi Kgatlana, Kaylin Swart, Hildah Magaia and Jermaine Seoposenwe headline what is a strong squad from Ellis.
Banyana will meet USA away on Friday, 22 September for their first match before the teams go head to head again two days later on Sunday, 24 September.
?? Banyana Banyana make history as they progress to the #FIFAWWC knockout stages for the very first time! ?? ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????#RSA 3??2? #ITA#SABCSportFootball #Sisonke #GameChangeHer pic.twitter.com/eZL1d1DPH7
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) August 2, 2023
The full 23-player squad:
GOALKEEPERS: Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns), Kaylin Swart (JVW FC), Kebotseng Moletsane (Royal AM)
DEFENDERS: Karabo Dhlamini, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, (all Sundowns), Lonathemba Mhlongo, Fikile Magama, Bongeka Gamede (all UWC), Noko Matlou (SD Eibar, Spain)
MIDFIELDERS: Sinoxolo Cesane (East Tennesse State University, USA), Kholosa Biyana (Mamelodi Sundowns) Sibulele Holweni (UWC), Linda Motlhalo (Glasgow City, Scotland), Nomvula Kgoale (TS Galaxy), Robyn Moodaly (JVW)
FORWARDS: Gabriela Salgado (JVW), Jermaine Seoposenwe (C.F. Monterrey, Mexico), Noxolo Cesane (UWC), Melinda Kgadiete (Sundowns), Wendy Shongwe (Tuks), Hildah Magaia (Sejong Sportsoso, South Korea), Thembi Kgatlana (Racing Louisville, USA).
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