WAFCON 2025: Banyana Banyana Aim to Finish Strong, Says Coach Ellis

Rethabile Nyelele25 July , 2025

Despite falling short of reaching the final, Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis insists the team still has a mission to accomplish. They prepare to take on Ghana in the third-place playoff of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The match is scheduled for Friday night at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. The kick-off is set for 9pm local time.

Ellis has rallied her side to give their all in the bronze medal clash. Finishing the tournament with silverware remains a top priority, she stated.

Bronze Still Matters

Speaking ahead of the crucial playoff against the Black Queens, Ellis acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on a title defence. However, she stressed that there’s still pride and purpose driving the squad.

“Of course, there’s frustration in not making the final, but we still have something meaningful to fight for,” said Ellis. “Securing third place is not just a consolation. It’s about returning home with a medal and honouring our journey at this tournament.”

Playing for Salgado

Ellis also highlighted the emotional motivation behind the team’s upcoming performance. The players are rallying behind injured teammate Gabriela Salgado. She suffered a serious leg injury during Banyana’s 2-1 semi-final defeat to Nigeria earlier in the week.

“This game is for Gabi. She gave everything for the team, and now that she’s sidelined, we want to bring the medal back for her,” Ellis explained. “It’s not just another match. It’s a meaningful one. We need to show resilience and unity. We must end this campaign with something to show for it.”

Salgado’s Recovery Update

Salgado’s injury, which occurred during the intense battle with Nigeria, was later confirmed to be a fracture of the mid-shaft of her left leg. Following the incident, she underwent surgery at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca.

Banyana’s team doctor, Dr Lindi Mokoena, provided an update on the midfielder’s condition. He confirmed that Salgado will be out for the remainder of the year.

“She had a clean fracture and has since undergone successful surgery. Gabi will now begin her recovery journey. Unfortunately, she will miss the rest of the football calendar in 2025,” Dr Mokoena said.

He praised the collaborative effort by CAF, the Banyana medical team, and hospital staff. “The care Gabi received in Morocco has been world-class,” he said. “We’re deeply grateful for the support shown throughout this difficult time.”

The Team’s Mental Reset

Looking ahead to Friday’s clash, Ellis noted that the team has had to mentally reset. They must lift themselves after the heartbreak of the semi-final exit. She believes that the desire to make the nation proud, coupled with their support for Salgado, will fuel their efforts.

“It’s crucial that we bounce back strongly. This match offers a chance to show our character and resilience,” Ellis said. “It’s not just about medals, it’s about pride, spirit, and representing our country with dignity.”

Eyes on the Podium

As the WAFCON 2025 campaign winds down, Banyana are determined to ensure their journey ends on a high. While the gold medal may be out of reach, the bronze still carries weight and meaning. This is both for the squad and for the millions of fans back home.

Friday’s match will not only be a test of skill but also of mental strength, unity, and purpose. And as Ellis has made clear, Banyana Banyana are ready to give their all, one last time.