Banyana focused on present as WAFCON roars into life

BANYANA Banyana will begin their CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence this weekend with a clear message from within camp — the past will not play a part for them in Morocco.

- SMISO MSOMI

The 2025 edition of the tournament officially kicked off yesterday with the final set for July 26.

Banyana, who are based in Oujda, will face Ghana, Tanzania and Mali in Group C as they attempt to retain the crown they famously won three years ago.

“We are focused on ourselves and not stressed about other teams. We just need to make sure that we do on the field what we do when we train,” said forward Noxolo Cesane, who is expected to play a key role in Desiree Ellis’ squad during the campaign.

The team resumed training on Friday in Casablanca after a day off, before travelling to their base for the group stages.

Banyana are among 12 nations competing for the newly unveiled WAFCON trophy, which was presented on Wednesday in Rabat.