South Africa’s Banyana Banyana are preparing for their toughest test yet at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as they face nine-time champions Nigeria in the semi-finals at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium today.
After a goalless draw and a nervy penalty shootout victory against Senegal in the quarter-finals, head coach Desiree Ellis has some attacking problems to solve.
Despite progressing, Banyana’s forwards were largely ineffective, leaving questions about who can deliver the goods upfront against the high-scoring Super Falcons, who thrashed Zambia 5-0 in their own quarter-final.
Predicted Bayana Bayana Xi To Face The Super Falcons of Nigeria
Goalkeeper: Andile Dlamini
Hero of the Senegal shootout, Dlamini proved her worth between the posts, and she’s expected to retain her spot ahead of Kaylin Swart.
Right-Back: Lebohang Ramalepe
The experienced vice-captain brings stability and has previously faced Nigeria, making her a likely starter.
Left-Back: Karabo Dhlamini
A trusted figure in Ellis’ backline, Dhlamini’s defensive awareness will be critical against Nigeria’s dangerous wingers.
Centre-Backs: Bambanani Mbane & Fikile Magama
Mbane, a veteran defender who scored against Tanzania earlier in the tournament, will partner with the solid Magama to anchor Banyana’s central defence against Nigeria’s quick forwards.
Central Midfielders: Refiloe Jane & Tiisetso Makhubela
Captain Jane will lead the midfield charge alongside Makhubela. Their defensive midfield combination will be key to shielding the backline while trying to link play forward.
Attacking Midfielder: Sibulele Holweni
Holweni will need to step up creatively to feed the front line, especially after the midfield was out of sync in the last match.
Right & Left Attackers: Jermaine Seoposenwe & Linda Motlhalo
Both players struggled against Senegal, especially Seoposenwe, who’ll be eager to redeem herself. Motlhalo remains a dangerous threat and could tilt the game if she finds her rhythm.
Centre-Forward: Hildah Magaia
Magaia’s performance was underwhelming in the last game, but she’s expected to lead the line again. With Thembi Kgatlana unavailable, the goal-scoring responsibility rests heavily on her shoulders.
Coach Ellis must now find a way to ignite her misfiring attack as Banyana seek a place in the final—and possibly a back-to-back WAFCON title.
