Picture: Banyana Banyana players/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
26 February 2026 – Sasol Banyana Banyana have an almost full complement of players in camp following the arrival of six more at their current training base in Polokwane in Limpopo. Thembi Kgatlana, Amogelang Motau (both Mexico-based), Linda Motlhalo (Scotland), Bongeka Gamede (Denmark), Jessica Wade (Finland) and Lebo Ramalepe have all arrived at the hotel, where the 2022 African Champions are camping while participating in the COSAFA Women’s Championship.
Banyana Banyana Head Coach, Desiree Ellis said none of these players have been registered for the regional women’s tournament. Ellis said they are excited to have these players in camp as they bring more experience.
“I believe this is an exciting time for the youngsters in the squad as they get to mix with their heroes. We have been saying this is an alignment camp for both the COSAFA and the WAFCON, so the arrival of these players helps us take our preparations a notch higher.
“What is also pleasing is that the trio of Linda, Thembi and Amo all scored in their last games at their respective clubs before joining camp, and they come here in good form, which is very encouraging. But we are very excited to have them around so we can look to finalize our team for WAFCON,” she said.
Ellis further said Hildah Magaia is the only player still to arrive. She added that Magaia has just signed for a new team in Spain and following a long wait for her documentation, she only just joined them now.
“We are working together with the club to see what’s best for them, for Magaia and for Sasol Banyana Banyana, but she will be joining us soon.
“Banyana Banyana will face Zimbabwe in the semi-final of the COSAFA Women’s Championship 2025 on 27 February 2026 at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium. Kickoff is at 3pm. In the final, scheduled for Sunday, the winners will meet with either Namibia or Zambia, who will contest the other semi-final.
“I will be making an announcement for the final WAFCON 2026 squad in the next coming days once the COSAFA tournament has concluded,” said Ellis.
The Guardian 