Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis has named a strong squad for next month’s friendly internationals against Malawi.

The matches to be played on 5 and 8 April 2025 in Johannesburg are part of the Sasol-sponsored South African senior women’s national team’s preparations for the defense of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title as the countdown continues to the continental tournament to be hosted in Morocco from 5-26 July 2025.

Following a successful camp in Johannesburg last month, where a youthful Banyana Banyana side secured back-to-back wins over Lesotho, Ellis has recalled the core of the group that travelled to Jamaica to play in the Caribbean tropical maritime island in November 2024.

Young JVW FC goalkeeper Casey Gordon has earned her first senior call-up after impressing in a goalkeeper mini-camp, while veteran Mpumi Nyandeni (37) makes a return to the national setup. US-based defender Shakira O’Malley, who made her debut against Jamaica, has also been recalled, while TP Mazembe forward Kgaelebane Mohlakoana returns after an extended absence.

But the squad will be without several key players due to injury, including Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, and Wendy Shongwe. Former captain Refiloe Jane also remains unavailable as she continues her return to full fitness after signing with TS Galaxy Queens in the Hollywoodbets Super League. Dr Ellis acknowledged the importance of these fixtures in fine-tuning her squad for the continental showpiece in Morocco later this year.