BANYANA Banyana have been busy preparing to reclaim the Wafcon trophy as they return to Morocco where they claimed the continental showpiece in 2022.
Banyana Banyana’s mandate is clear heading into the 2026 Wafcon in Morocco: finish in the top four of the competition, and qualify for the 2027 Fifa Women’s World Cup in Brazil. However, coach Desiree Ellis knows that is easier said than done.
Banyana will return to Morocco later this month eager to make up for lost time. They endured a disappointing campaign in the tournament's previous edition last year, relinquishing their title to arch-rivals Nigeria and incredibly finishing fourth overall.
That run cast doubt over the future of Ellis, especially after talismanic forward Jermaine Seoposenwe publicly criticised the coach for failing to shield the squad from Safa's administrative shortcomings – particularly regarding player bonuses ahead of major events.
However, Ellis survived the turbulence to secure a contract renewal. Given the lengthy negotiations surrounding her new deal, she undoubtedly enters this tournament with a strict mandate: return to the Wafcon podium and secure a spot at next year's global showpiece.
