By OBAKENG MAJE
27 May 2025- Banyana Banyana was hard at work on the first day of training at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville ahead of their Three Nations series matches against Zambia and Botswana in the coming days. The Sasol-sponsored South African senior women’s national team face Botswana in the first match on Wednesday afternoon and then Zambia 3 June 2025, with both matches scheduled to be played at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.
These fixtures form a key part of coach Dr Desiree Ellis’ final preparations ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco in July 2025, with a focus on testing combinations, building momentum, and offering valuable minutes to players.
“We know Botswana, we’ve played them often enough. They bring the physicality and also the counter-attacking, and the pace. We also acknowledge the challenge posed by their regional rivals.
“It is important for striking a balance between performance and the results during this preparation phase. It’s very difficult because fans want results and of course, we also want results, but it’s also about the performance,” said Ellis.
She further said putting up a good performance will give you the results you want. Ellis added that, not forgetting that the teams they are playing are also preparing and chasing the same.
“A victory gives you confidence and momentum going forward. So yes, winning while performing well is ideal, but this period is about preparation, giving players opportunities, and still aiming for a positive result.
“The camp continues with a full squad expected to be finalised this week. Bongeka Gamede and Linda Motlhalo are both scheduled to join training tomorrow, further strengthening the group ahead of Wednesday’s fixture,” said Ellis.
Meanwhile, tickets for the #ThreeNations Series are available via Ticketpro priced at R40 for adults and R20 for children. Ticketpro – Banyana Banyana vs Botswana on 28 May 2025.
The Guardian 