Johannesburg – Durban Ladies striker Silindile Ngubane and High Performance Centre goalkeeper Katlego Moletsane have been called up to the Banyana Banyana squad for the African Women's Championship in Equatorial Guinea starting later this month.
Ngubane, who found the back of the net 11 times for Durban Ladies at the women's national championships in Umlazi in July, and Moletsane, called up as the squad's third-choice keeper, were among 21 names announced by head coach Joseph Mkhonza on Tuesday.
Experienced midfielder Yola Jafta was recalled after missing the London Olympic Games due to injury.
Banyana, ranked 56th in the world and fourth in Africa, finished third in the African Women's Championship in Ekurhuleni two years ago.
“The ladies are determined to finish 2012 on a high note after having represented Africa at the Olympic Games in London,” Mkhonza said.
“Thanks to Safa (the SA Football Association) and our team sponsor, Sasol, we have been able to allow the players to be put through their paces in national training camps in Johannesburg this month, before we head off to prepare the team in hot climatic conditions in Yaounde, Cameroon, from October 17 to 25.”
South Africa have been drawn in Group A and will face hosts Equatorial Guinea in their opening match in Malabo on October 28.
Banyana Banyana squad: Goalkeepers, Thokozile Mndaweni, Andile Dlamini, Katlego Moletsane.
Defenders: Nothando Vilakazi, Amanda Sister, Janine van Wyk, Zamandosi Cele, Refiloe Jane, Lebogang Mabatle.
Midfielders: Leandra Smeda, Nocawe Skiti, Amanda Dlamini (captain), Gabisile Hlumbane, Yola Jafta, Nompumelelo Nyandeni.
Strikers: Noko Matlou, Portia Modise, Andiswe Mgcoyi, Silindile Ngubane, Sanah Mollo, Jermaine Seoposenwe. – Sapa