Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has named a 26 women strong squad for the Turkish Women’s Cup.
The tournament will be held from 13-23 February 2023 and the participants are hosts Turkey, Slovenia, Uzbekistan, Venezuela and Zambia.
Ellis intends using the matches to address the defensive weaknesses she identified during Banyana’s friendly internationals against Brazil and Australia in 2022.
“When you look at the Brazil and Australia games last year, I think individually and defensively we were found wanting. We have got to be better,” Ellis said after announcing her squad on Monday, 6 February 2023.
“Any team’s foundation is built on a good defense. Before we were very good defensively and we knew we would get a chance or two and we would score. So we have got to be better in that department.”
Goalkeepers: Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Regirl Ngobeni, Katlego Moletsane
Defenders: Asanda Hadebe, Karabo Dhlamini, Fikile Magama, Faith Nokuthula, Tiiseto Makhubela, Noko Matlou, Bambanani Mbane, Bongeka Gumede
Midfielders: Refiloe Jane, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Kholosa Biyana, Thalea Smidt, Robyn Moodaly, Amogelang Motau
Forwards: Noxolo Cesane, Gabriela Salgado, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Melinda Kgadiete, Nthabiseng Majiya, Hildah Magaia, Lelona Daweti
Written by: Diski Voice
