Ellis on the importance of squad balance ahead of Algeria friendlies

Ellis has included three notable internationals in her 24-player squad for the matches scheduled for 14 and 17 April 2026. 

These include Amogelang Motau of Club Tijuana, striker Hilda Magaia of Deportivo La Coruña, and midfielder Linda Motlhalo of Glasgow City.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Ellis emphasised the importance of reintegrating players based abroad into the national setup.

"The big challenge was obviously the release date for the international players to join the squad and it's six days before the first game, but because our players have played with and against each other, they almost effortlessly join in as if they haven't been gone.

"These two international windows we have now, and maybe a third one just before we leave to WAFCON will be an opportunity to see the the international players, because we know whoever gets selected from the international players will come to camp only six days before the first game if the draw is still similar."

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Ellis also stressed that the selection process for the upcoming continental showpiece remains open, encouraging players to maintain consistency as they continue to stake their claim for selection.

The 63-year-old coach further revealed that several players were unavailable for this international window due to injury, with the technical team opting to prioritise their full recovery.

"It would be wrong of me to say I already have my squad. With the league starting, it gives us an opportunity to look at other players, and there's obviously players who are still recovering from injury.

"Other players who have played well and missed out would want to try and be consistent, and say coach don't forget about me."

Ellis believes Algeria will provide the right level of competition as Banyana fine-tune their squad ahead of WAFCON.