CAN 2025 (F): South Africa ready to defend their crown | OneFootball

CAN 2025 (F): South Africa ready to defend their continental crown

This Monday, July 7, the Banyana Banyana kick off their 2025 Women's AFCON campaign against Ghana. As the reigning champions following their historic triumph in Morocco in 2022, the South Africans return to Moroccan soil with a clear goal: to defend their trophy.

Backstage tensions quickly defused

Just days before the opening whistle, the atmosphere in the South African camp was tense. The players had briefly boycotted training sessions, demanding that the South African Football Association (Safa) address their financial grievances. Fortunately, an agreement was reached, and the team can now focus fully on the competition.

Banyana's main strengths

In a tough group featuring Ghana, Tanzania, and Mali, experience and individual brilliance will be crucial. First, there's Jermaine Seoposenwe—one of the squad's most influential players. She has announced her international retirement after the tournament and is determined to finish on a golden note. Then there's Hildah Magaia. With Thembi Kgatlana sidelined by injury, Magaia will be expected to spearhead the South African attack. She already netted a brace in the 2022 AFCON final against Morocco.

There's also Linda Motlhalo. The brilliant and elegant playmaker is often the key in tight matches. With her decisive runs and knack for finding the net, she is a lethal weapon in Ellis's setup.

Goal: keep the throne

With a squad blending experience, youth, and raw talent, South Africa has every chance to go all the way. But the competition will be fierce, and they'll need an impeccable mindset right from the opening clash against Ghana's Black Queens.