End of an Era: South African football icons Matlou and Nyandeni last dance for Banyana

AS BANYANA Banyana prepares to defend their title at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in Morocco this July, the team is also set to bid farewell to two of its most iconic players.

- SMISO MSOMI

Noko Matlou and Mpumi Nyandeni, whose contributions have shaped South African women's football, will play their final matches for the national team in two friendlies against Malawi - today and Tuesday, April 8.

These matches will not only serve as valuable preparation for coach Desiree Ellis and her squad ahead of Wafcon but also as a heartfelt send-off for two veterans who have represented South Africa with pride and distinction for many years.

Their retirements mark the end of an era for Banyana, and these games will be a poignant farewell for the players who have inspired countless South Africans.

Matlou, who made her debut for South Africa in 2007 against Nigeria, is one of the most capped players in the country's football history.