Desiree Ellis prioritises versatility and balance in final Banyana WAFCON squad

Ellis unveiled the squad at Sasol’s headquarters in Johannesburg, trimming her preliminary 31-player squad down to 26.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Ellis says it was equally important to ensure the squad is well-balanced and has a healthy blend of youth and experienced players.

"The last two WAFCONs, you know, 2022, we had a really, really good squad. We had the likes of Amogelang Motau, Bongeka Gamede, who were not regulars, but could play in any position for us, you know. We looked at it again and we said, we could bring in some young players, but we want to go all the way, we want to qualify for the World Cup and then, you know, have a look," said Ellis

READ: Desiree Ellis names final Banyana Banyana squad for WAFCON

"Because you don't also want to just throw people in at the deep end, because then you break their spirit. So, you know, we wanted to get the mix right with an experience and make sure that we have all our bases covered. You know, we have to be adaptable during the tournament, because teams are going to play differently against us."

"We saw it lat ast year's WAFCON, a lot of teams placed a lot higher than sitting back. We think the game is going to be quicker as well. So we wanted to get that mix right, where we got the experience, but around that experience, we have players that are not too young, but players that are still, we have about seven players under the age of 24, you know, with Zoe (October) being the youngest at 18."

Ellis also reflected on the team’s preparations for the continental showpiece, saying the final international friendly against Japan - which South Africa won 1-0 in Osaka - has boosted the squad’s confidence and strengthened its ability to cope with top-quality opposition. 

The 63-year-old coach believes exposing younger players to WAFCON is vital, describing the tournament as one of Africa’s biggest football stages and an important platform for future opportunities.