Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has finalized her 26-player squad for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) 2026, emphasizing a harmonious team environment ahead of the tournament.The team, grouped in Group B with Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Tanzania, will face Tanzania in their opening match on July 27 in Rabat.Ellis highlighted the importance of unity and collective goals, stating that the squad’s focus is on qualifying for the World Cup.

She addressed past disputes over bonuses with the South African Football Association (Safa), asserting that both parties are aligned to avoid conflicts this time.The squad features a mix of experienced players and young talents, including 18-year-old Zoe October, to ensure depth and competitiveness.Ellis cited lessons from previous Wafcon campaigns, such as the 2022 title win and the 2024 fourth-place finish, to inform her selections.The team’s preparation includes a camp in Morocco, with the tournament running from July 25 to August 16.

Ellis emphasized the need for adaptability, ensuring that the squad can replace players if needed while maintaining a balance between youth and experience.