Nigeria’s Super Falcons are monitoring their closest continental rivals closely after South Africa announced a rejuvenated squad for the upcoming 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Coach Desiree Ellis has made sweeping changes to the Banyana Banyana squad, opting for a bold mix of youth and ambition in her 23-player list. Nine members of the 2022 title-winning team have been dropped, including veteran goalkeeper Casey Gordon and forward Nthabiseng Majiya, both now on standby.
In a major setback, star striker Thembi Kgatlana will miss the tournament due to injury. Despite her absence, South Africa remain determined, signalling their hunger to defend the crown they lifted by beating Nigeria two years ago. The reigning champions will begin their Group C campaign against Ghana on 7 July before facing Tanzania on the 11th and Mali on the 14th, all leading up to the potential final in Rabat on 26 July.
From Nigeria’s side, South Africa’s aggressive reshuffle sparks both curiosity and caution. The Super Falcons are eyeing their 10th WAFCON title, having already won nine of the last twelve editions. Randy Waldrum’s side recently held Portugal to a goalless draw in Lisbon, underlining their determination to reclaim African dominance after falling short in 2022. That setback has only intensified their focus ahead of a likely showdown with the Banyana Banyana.
Still, South Africa come into the tournament on strong form, with a six-game winning run that includes a 2-0 victory over fellow WAFCON hopefuls Zambia. It’s a significant bounce back from their COSAFA Cup final loss last November.
Both nations reached the knockout stage at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, reinforcing their status as Africa’s leading women’s teams. Should they meet again in Morocco, it promises to be an explosive encounter — one that could define a new era in African women’s football.