By BAKANG MOKOTO 

Banyana Banyana reported for camp in Johannesburg on Sunday evening, where they will have two local training sessions before heading to Dakar, Senegal on Wednesday to play two international friendly matches against the West Africans.

The Sasol-sponsored South African Senior Women’s National Team, missed out on qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics Games and have dusted themselves up after the disappointment as they focus on the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and the regional COSAFA Women’s Championships.

The Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis said: “We are having a look at players who have raised their hands and want to get an opportunity with the national team. We are looking at making the core group bigger and here is an opportunity for players who have not been getting regular game time to cement their place in the squad. 

“Following the initial squad announcement a few days ago, three changes have been made and this will give players a chance to show their hunger to represent the nation.”

Ellis further said Hilda Magaia has been replaced by Lesego Nkoane from TS Galaxy Queens due to medical reasons, while the UWC duo of Fikile Magama and Bongeka Gamede have been replaced by UJ’s Shannon Macoma, Ayesha Moosa due to university exams.

She added that all local-based players have reported for camp, while the international-based group will connect with the team enroute to Senegal.

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