Jane headlines final 26-player squad announced by Coach Desiree Ellis

Banyana Banyana captain Refiloe Jane headlines the final 26-player squad announced by head coach Desiree Ellis ahead of the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where South Africa will be chasing both continental glory and FIFA Women's World Cup qualification.

Jane believes the team is fully aware of the importance of the tournament after falling short in the previous edition.

"It's very important for us to do well in this upcoming tournament. We know the previous one did not go very well, but we all know what is at stake with this one. It is a World Cup qualifying tournament, so the main objective is to qualify for the World Cup, and then we will take everything further from there."

After overcoming an injury setback, Jane says the postponement of the tournament worked in her favour, allowing her to return to full fitness while gaining valuable match minutes with her club.

"It was a blessing in disguise when the tournament was postponed because we were still in the off-season. Now that the league has started and players have got minutes under their belts, it is helping the team in a way. Personally, I am happy that I am able to start with the team on a high note and build from there. We're grateful that the league has started and that we are doing well as individuals in our respective teams."

Jane also acknowledged the void left by the retirement of veteran midfielder Jermaine Seoposenwe, describing her as a player whose influence extended well beyond the pitch.

"Obviously, we know that Jermaine was a big part of the team, and her absence is felt, whether on or off the field. She is a special kind of person and player, and whenever a senior player leaves the team, there is a gap left. However, I am hoping that the younger players have learned from her, and we're hoping that with the players we have, we will be able to move forward."

Jane reiterated that South Africa's immediate focus is securing qualification for the FIFA Women's World Cup, while also aiming to successfully defend their WAFCON crown.

BANYANA BANYANA SQUAD:

Goalkeepers: Kaylin Swart (JVW FC), Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Kebotseng Moletsane (University of Fort Hare FC)

Defenders: Lebohang Ramalepe (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Lonathemba Mhlongo (The University of the Western Cape FC), Karabo Dhlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Asanda Hadebe (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Bambanani Mbane (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Antonia Maponya (The University of the Western Cape FC), Khutso Pila (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Fikile Magama (The University of the Western Cape FC)

Midfielders: Bongeka Gamede (FC Nordjaelland *Denmark*), Noxolo Cesane (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Gabriela Moodaly-Salgado (JVW FC), Linda Motlhalo (Glasgow City *Scotland*), Nonhlanhla Mathandi (Mamelodi Sundowns FC) Refiloe Jane (TS Galaxy Queens FC), Sibulele Holweni (The University of the Western Cape FC), Isabella Ludwig (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Robyn Moodaly-Salgado (JVW FC), Amogelang Motau (Club Tijuan *Mexico*)

Forwards: Hildah Magaia (Unattached), Thembi Kgatlana ( Tigers Unal *Mexico*), Ronnel Donnelly (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Nthabiseng Majiya (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Zoe October (The University of the Western Cape FC)