Banyana to face DR Congo without Ellis and key players

BANYANA Banyana will have to navigate uncharted territory without their key sources of inspiration when they face the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first leg of the second and final round of the 2026 Fifa Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers this afternoon.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

The team assembled for camp on Sunday without head coach Desiree Ellis and four overseas-based players: Amogelang Motau, Thembi Kgatlana, Sinoxolo Cesane, and Hildah Magaia, all of whom play in Mexico.

The absence of Ellis is particularly notable. She is not with the team as she has yet to agree to terms with the South African Football Association (Safa) on a new contract.

This is surprising, considering Safa had ample time to offer her a new deal. Ellis has been working on a month-to-month contract since her previous one expired after the Olympic Games.

Given that these qualifiers could make or break Banyana's hopes for both WAFCON and the 2027 Fifa Women's World Cup in Brazil - since semifinalists at WAFCON will qualify - it was crucial for the team to have their head coach issuing instructions from the touchline from the outset.