Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has finalized her squad, which will defend the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco next month.

Initially, a preliminary squad of 28 players was announced, but the final list now features 26. Notably absent from the squad is star striker Thembi Kgatlana, who is unavailable for personal reasons.

There was also no place for Mamelodi Sundowns’ industrious midfielder Kholosa Biyana, for reasons yet to be disclosed.

The reigning African champions are placed in Group C. They will kick off their WAFCON campaign against Ghana on Monday, 7 July, at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, which will serve as South Africa’s base during the group stages. Banyana Banyana will then face Tanzania on Friday, 11 July, and conclude their group stage matches against Mali on Monday, 14 July.

The WAFCON tournament is scheduled to be held in Morocco from 5 July to 26 July. The opening match will feature hosts Morocco against Zambia on Saturday, 5 July, at the newly built Olympic Stadium in Rabat.