No match, but a training camp for Banyana’s WAFCON preparations

There are only three calendar dates between now and the continental women’s championship, which will take place in July in Morocco, with the next international window being later this month between 17-26, a date set for the 2026 WAFCON qualifiers.

 South Africa has a bye during that period and will only play in the qualifiers in October in the second round.

With time running out for a friendly match in about two weeks, Banyana could instead hold a training camp but coach Desiree Ellis was tight-lipped on the matter.

"Look, I cannot divulge anything right now but we will utilise all the FIFA dates to the maximum to make sure that we're ready for WAFCON," Ellis said.

READ: UJ Ladies coach Nthabeleng Modiko predicts tough 2025 season

Ellis says that with 2025 being the year of the WAFCON, it’s not surprising that there are too many player movements in the Hollywoodbets Super League.

Almost every team in the league has either lost or gained a player.

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, Ellis says some players are trying to raise their hands to be in contention for Banyana selection.

"Expecting a very exciting season because it's a very big year for Banyana Banyana. It wasn't an easy season for anyone but Sundowns quality showed in the end, and the depth showed in the end but yes the margin was big eventually but if you look at this season overall it hasn't been an easy season for anyone,” the coach added.

“There's been such a lot of players leaving clubs and movement, it's quite interesting to see where these players end up and how they add value to the different teams. So, that's why I'm expecting a really good season and normally during a WAFCON year, there are players always wanting to raise their hands and that's why I think we are off to a very exciting start for the new season of the Hollywoodbets Super League."

With South Africa still not in a strong position in terms of quality goalkeepers in women’s football, Ellis was excited that a new winner has emerged in the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards, Matshidiso Masebe of the University of Johannesburg.

"A young goalkeeper as well getting a recognition as well for her efforts for the University of Johannesburg and we always talking about making the core group bigger especially with the goalkeepers and there's another opportunity now.

“When I listened to the excitement in the room, I think everybody is looking forward to the season."