South Africa's women's national soccer team, Banyana Banyana, will play two friendly matches against Japan in Osaka this week [1, 2].
These fixtures serve as a critical litmus test for the squad before they compete in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Coach Desiree Ellis said she intends to use the series to assess the team's readiness and expose the players to a different style of play [3, 4].
The first match is scheduled for June 6, 2024, at the Nagai Ballgame Field [5, 6]. The second encounter will take place on June 9, 2024, at J-Green Sakai [6, 7]. Both venues are located in Osaka, Japan [6].
Reports on the final roster size vary slightly. One source indicates a 23-player squad was announced for the trip [1], while another report mentions a 24-woman squad [8].
Ellis said the matches are designed to ensure the team is prepared for various challenges they may face during the rescheduled WAFCON tournament [3]. The preparation includes the return of key players, such as Kgatlana and Gamede, to the squad [6].
Facing a high-ranking opponent like Japan allows the coaching staff to identify tactical gaps and fitness levels under pressure. The focus remains on refining the squad's cohesion before traveling to Morocco for the continental championship [4, 8].
“Banyana Banyana will play two friendly matches against Japan in Osaka”
By scheduling friendlies against a top-tier Asian opponent, South Africa is diversifying its tactical preparation beyond regional African competition. This strategy aims to improve the team's adaptability and mental toughness, which are essential for navigating the knockout stages of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
