31 July 2019 – Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has announced her starting eleven for the opening match of the 2019 COSAFA Women’s Championship against Comoros.
Ellis has made three changes to the team that played against Germany in the last fixture of the South Africa’s 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign.
Defenders Bambanani Mbane and Tiisetso Makhubela have been brought in to play in central defence ahead of captain Janine van Wyk and Noko Matlou, while Bongeka Gamede will get her first start in a Banyana Banyana shirt as she earns her second cap playing at left back.
Gamede takes the place of Nothando Vilakazi who was not called up due to club commitments.
Andile Dlamini keeps her place in goals, so does Lebohang Ramalepe at right back.
The midfield is unchanged from the clash against Germany, with Mamello Makhabane playing alongside Kholosa Biyana, supported by Refiloe Jane and Busisiwe Ndimeni.
Amanda Mthandi and Ode Fulutudilu will go in search of goals.
Jane will captain the side.
The match against Comoros will take place at the Wolfson Stadium in Port Elizabeth.
Kickoff is at 15h30.
This will be the second ever meeting between the two nations – with South Africa winning the first match 13-0 five years ago.
Banyana Banyana XI vs Comoros
Andile Dlamini (GK), Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Bambanani Mbane, Bongeka Gamede, Kholosa Biyana, Mamello Makhabane, Refiloe Jane (c), Amanda Mthandi, Busisiwe Ndimeni, Ode Fulutudilu
Subs:
Kaylin Swart (GK), Janine van Wyk, Noko Matlou, Noxolo Cesane, Robyn Moodaly, Hildah Magaia, Ongeziwe Ndlangisa, Priscilla Pesa, Shange Sthembile
Head Coach: Desiree Ellis