Sources within the Banyana Banyana camp have raised concerns about divisions among the coaching staff ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The South African Football Association has denied any discord. The tournament begins on 26 July and doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Insiders told Daily Maverick that tensions have grown between assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli and strength and conditioning coach Ridhaa Allie following the team’s June 2026 tour of Japan. They claimed Mbuli and Allie handle much of the workload while head coach Desiree Ellis receives public credit. One source stated that players feel unhappy and described the situation as awkward.
SAFA rejected the claims in a statement. It said Ellis and Mbuli have worked together for more than a decade with mutual respect and no formal complaints. The federation added that player selection rests solely with the head coach and follows a transparent process based on merit.
The sources also expressed fears that the reported divisions could affect performance at WAFCON, scheduled from 26 July to 16 August. They noted the team needs to reach the semifinals to qualify directly for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Ellis, Mbuli and Allie did not respond to requests for comment.
