Banyana Banyana spotted in Edenvale

The U20 Banyana Banyana squad members were spotted at the Edenvale Football Club’s (EFC) grounds on November 23 when training for an upcoming match.

The head of the EFC’s girls and women coaching, Louis Antonopoulos, said it was inspiring for younger players to see the U20 squad train in Edenvale.

“The youngsters are in awe. It’s inspirational to everyone to see our national squad training. We have U12 and U13 players who, in a few years, could easily be future Banyana Banyana players,” said Antonopoulos.

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The training was preparation for Banyana Banyana’s face-off against Jamaica’s Reggae Girls.

The teams will go toe-to-toe in two international friendlies played in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

The first friendly was on November 29, while the second will be on December 3.

These two matches are the last of the year for the Sasol-sponsored SA senior women’s national team because they wrap up 2024 ahead of next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

The Banyana Banyana head coach, Dr Desiree Ellis, will look to try new combinations while also seeking to maintain a solid defence.

Ellis said they looked forward to a fast-paced match against a side that has also held its own against very strong opponents in their region.

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“The Jamaicans will give us a good run for our money. We will look to ensure we build on keeping the ball, creating and converting chances, but also maintaining our defensive structure,” said Ellis.

With the draw for WAFCON out, Ellis said the team will focus on how they play against opponents in their group.

“We have brought many young players to Jamaica who have raised their hands in the league, and this is a great opportunity for them to fight for spots in the national team,” said Ellis.

SA is in group C in next year’s WAFCON and will play West African sides Ghana and Mali and East African side Tanzania.