Banyana Banyana have been rocked by a major development just weeks before the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco — star forward Thembi Kgatlana has declared herself unavailable for selection. Her sudden decision, reportedly due to personal reasons, has stunned the football community and cast doubt over the national team’s chances of defending their continental crown.
Thembi Kgatlana: A Key Figure Opts Out
Kgatlana’s withdrawal is a major blow for coach Desiree Ellis, who was hoping to count on one of the country’s most decorated players for the title defence. Known for her pace, sharp instincts, and leadership on the field, Kgatlana has long been a central figure in the national set-up. Her journey with Banyana Banyana began at the 2016 Rio Olympics when she was still a teenager, and since then, she has cemented her place among the game’s elite.
Legacy of Brilliance
The 2018 WAFCON in Ghana was arguably the tournament that announced her arrival on the international stage. Kgatlana dazzled fans with her flair and scoring prowess, winning both the Player of the Tournament and the Golden Boot, even though Banyana finished as runners-up to Nigeria.
In 2019, she wrote her name into the history books by becoming the first South African woman to score at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Fast-forward to 2023, and she once again delivered when it mattered most — scoring the winning goal against Italy in a thrilling 3–2 victory that secured South Africa’s first-ever win at a World Cup and their passage into the knockout phase.
Kgatlana’s international stats underline her impact — 31 goals in 82 appearances, a testament to her consistency and quality. Her recent club performances have also been top-notch, including a 14-goal haul in the latest season for Tigres UANL in Mexico, where she has quickly become one of the most influential players in Liga MX Femenil.
A Mysterious Decision
Kgatlana’s unavailability has prompted speculation about the real reasons behind her decision. For a player known to thrive on the biggest stages — and who once famously said, “I love big games because they motivate me” — the timing of her announcement is both surprising and concerning.
While the official reason given is personal, some within football circles have pointed to possible lingering tensions with SAFA or dissatisfaction over how players are treated. The recent memory of last year’s standoff before the World Cup, where Banyana players protested over pay and conditions, has only added fuel to the speculation.
Squad Preparations Underway
Coach Ellis has named a 28-player preliminary squad to attend a training camp in Johannesburg starting 19 June. This group will be trimmed to 24 players who will continue preparations, with the final 23-woman squad set to be revealed on 23 June.
Another concern for the technical team is the fitness of Hildah Magaia, one of the standout performers from the 2023 campaign. She will be monitored closely after undergoing medical evaluations.
Eyes on Morocco Without Their Star
Banyana Banyana will be based in Oujda during the group stages of WAFCON 2024, hoping to replicate their victorious 2022 run. But Kgatlana’s absence leaves a glaring gap — not only in terms of goals but also in experience and match-winning quality.
Her departure may be temporary, but its impact could be long-lasting. As the team looks to regroup, all eyes will be on who steps up in her place on the continent’s biggest stage.
Also read: Banyana Banyana Ready to Shine in Friendly Against Botswana Ahead of WAFCON 2025
