Desiree Ellis names Banyana Banyana squad for Malawi friendlies

The senior women's national team are ramping up preparations for the defence of their Women's Africa Cup of Nations crown at this year's showpiece set to be hosted in Morocco from 5-26 July 2025.

Following's the previous camp that saw a new-look Banyana beat Lesotho in back-to-back friendlies last month, Ellis has restored the bulk of the squad that travelled to Jamaica in November last year.

Some notable inclusions include young JVW FC goalkeeper Casey Gordon, who impressed during a goalkeeper min-camp last month, and 37-year-old midfielder Mpumi Nyandeni, who returns to the fold following a prolonged absence.

Elsewhere, US-based defender Shakira O'Malley also earns a recall following her debut against the Reggae Girlz, with TP Mazembe forward Kgaelebane Mohlakoana also returning following a prolonged absence from the international scene.

Regulars such as Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dlhamini, and Wendy Shongwe have all been left out due to injury.

Former skipper and midfielder Refiloe Jane also remains out following her recent return to football, having signed with Hollywoodbets Super League side TS Galaxy Queens.

READ: Refiloe Jane a motivation to younger players - Sizwe Sibiya

Full 23-player Banyana squad:

Goalkeepers: Kaylin SWART, Casey GORDON (both JVW FC), Andile DLAMINI (Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies)

Defenders: Lebohang RAMALEPE, Tiisetso MAKHUBELA, (both Sundowns Ladies), Fikile MAGAMA, Lonathemba MHLONGO (both UWC Ladies), Gabriela SALGADO (JVW FC), Shakira O’MALLEY (Western Michigan University, USA), Noko MATLOU (Cacereno FC, Spain)

Midfielders: Bongeka GAMEDE (Nordsjælland, Denmark), Linda MOTLHALO (Glasgow City, Scotland), Nonhlanhla MTHANDI (Sundowns Ladies), Nompumelelo NYANDENI (JVW FC), Amogelang MOTAU (Club Tijuana, Mexico), Noxolo CESANE (Eastern Flames, Saudi Arabia)

Forwards: Samkelisiwe SELANA (TS Galaxy Queens), Adrielle MIBE (UJ Ladies), Hildah MAGAIA (Club Tijuana, Mexico), Mavis MAIACANE (Super Strikers FC), Jermaine SEOPOSENWE (CF Monterrey, Mexico), Thembi KGATLANA (UANL Tigres, Mexico), Kgaelebane MOHLAKOANA (TP Mazembe, DR Congo)