SEDIBENG.- Banyana Banyana Coach, Desiree Ellis admitted that selecting a 36-member preliminary squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup was the most difficult thing.
Ellis named the preliminary squad that will fight for a place in the team to book their tickets to Australia and New Zealand from 20 July – 20 August. All selected players are expected to report at the camp in Johannesburg on 12 June and at the end of the camp, Ellis is expected to name her 23-member final team that will compete at the biggest stage in the world, the World Cup.
Speaking to journalists, Ellis said it was the most difficult task to select the 36-member preliminary squad.
“I must say, for the first time I find it difficult to select those players because I believe everyone one deserves to be in this preliminary squad even those who were not selected. I always tell the players that they must fight to be in the team and this is their chance to fight for their place in the team. It is good to have a pool of players to select from. All the players must raise their hands,” said Ellis.
To date, Banyana Banyana qualified for this Women’s World Cup after being crowned the African Women’s Cup of Nations.
Banyana Banyana’s preliminary squad
 Keepers: Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Regirl Ngobeni, Kebotseng Moletsane, Asa Ramalao
Defenders: Bambanani Mbane, Noko Matlou, Bongeka Gamede, Lebohang Ramalepe, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Tiisetso Makhubela, Fikile Magama, Karabo Dhlamini, Asanda Hadebe, Cimone Sauls
Midfielders:Â Refiloe Jane, Linda Motlhalo, Nomvula Kgoale, Sibulele Holweni, Kholosa Biyana, Amogelang Motau, Robyn Moodaly; Thalea Smidt, Thubelihle Shamase
Forwards:Â Kgatlana, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, Melinda Kgadiete, Noxolo Cesane, Gabriela Salgado, Nthabiseng Majiya, Siphumelele Shamase, Wendy Shongwe, Ntombifikile Ndlovu, Lelona Daweti, Nicole Michael.
