Ex-captain Modiko urges Banyana to take it game at a time at WAFCON

Photo Credit - Banyana Banyana

Former Banyana Banyana captain Nthabeleng Modiko has warned the South African women’s national team that they will be the target of teams at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Banyana, who will be defending the title they won in 2022, have already departed for Morocco ahead of the tournament scheduled to take place from 5-26 July 2025 in the North African country. Banyana have been drawn in Group B alongside Ghana, Tanzania, and Mali.

“I think, as the defending champions, Banyana Banyana has a target on their backs, especially among all the teams that would be wanting to dethrone them, but I'm very much aware that the team has been gelling together,” said Modiko as quoted by SABC Sports.

“We still have to deal with every match as it comes, for instance, the opening match is a critical match for all of us because we know that it will set the tone for you in this tournament and you are opening against a very strong team in Ghana.

“I think everybody has dotted their i’s and crossed their t's, it's just for them to be able to play. Let's play guys, let's get on the pitch and play, because that's where we can get all the answers.

“Keep your head held high, focus on every game as it comes, let's not be overwhelmed by thinking five steps ahead.”

Banyana Banyana will kick-start the defence of their title against Ghana in 14 days’ time (Monday, 7 July 2025). This will be followed by the clash against Tanzania on Friday, 11 July with Mali last on the list in the group stages on Monday, 14 July.

All the games will be played at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda.

Banyana Banyana squad;

GOALKEEPERS: Kaylin Swart, Andile Dlamini, Dineo Magagula, Casey Gordon.

DEFENDERS: Lebohang Ramalepe, Fikile Magama, Gabriela Salgado, Tiisetso Makhubela, Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Bongeka Gamede.

MIDFIELDERS; Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Refiloe Jane, Amogelang Motau, Regina Mogolola, Noxolo Cesane, Adrielle Mibe, Kgaelebane Mohlakoana.

FORWARDS: Hildah Magaia, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Nthabiseng Majiya, Bonolo Mokoma, Ronnel Donnely.