“Pressure Is A Privilege” — Ellis Fires Warning Shot Ahead Of Banyana’s WAFCON Opener

Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis believes pressure is a privilege as South Africa prepares to compete at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which kicks off on Sunday.

The 2022 champions will begin their title defence on Monday when they face Tanzania in their opening Group B match. South Africa has been drawn alongside Tanzania, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast.

Having featured in every edition of the competition since making their debut in 1995, Banyana will be aiming to reclaim the continental crown and secure a second WAFCON title after their historic maiden triumph in 2022.

Ellis said pressure is a privilege for a team of Banyana’s stature, adding that her players understand the expectations that come with representing South Africa on the continental stage.

“I think pressure is a privilege when you come into a team that is already under pressure,” said Ellis.

“But our team has handled it well. I think the experience we have in the squad, having been there and having done it before, will help a lot, especially with the six players who are competing at WAFCON for the first time. They have settled in really well, and that experience is already rubbing off on them.

“They are not completely new players because they already have caps for Banyana, having played at COSAFA tournaments or in international matches leading up to WAFCON. So they are not complete newcomers. I think everybody is settling in well, the mood in the camp is good, and that is really encouraging.”

Ellis also spoke about the arrival of four key players — Thembi Kgatlana, Linda Motlhalo, Amogelang Motau and Bongeka Gamede.

The quartet joined the squad on Wednesday after initially missing the team’s departure due to club commitments abroad.

The 63-year-old expressed her delight at having the experienced players back with the squad.

“We’re very excited to have them,” Ellis said.

“Linda, Thembi, Amo and Bongeka have been part of this team for a long time. I sat down with them to take them through what we worked on last week, and then we continued with our preparations.

“With only a couple of days to go, we need to make sure everyone understands exactly what we need to do on match day.”