Desiree Ellis Charts Banyana Banyana’s Next Chapter

With just weeks to go before the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off in Morocco, South Africa’s Banyana Banyana prepare to defend their crown under the calm yet steely leadership of head coach Dr Desiree Ellis.

“We’re not defending the title, we’re evolving as a team,” says Ellis, who has been named CAF Women’s Coach of the Year four times. It’s that mindset shift that defines the latest chapter in her coaching journey — a journey that has already delivered Banyana Banyana’s first-ever continental title in 2022 and a place in the last 16 at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023.

As the reigning champions prepare to face Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania in Group C, Ellis sat down with CAFOnline to reflect on lessons learned, progress made, and the road ahead.

Building a Culture of Belief

“That WAFCON win wasn’t luck,” Ellis reflects. “It was years of consistent planning and belief. We had a unity of purpose that ran through everyone, players, coaches, staff. We built a core, gave them experience, and when 2022 came around, we were ready.”

That unity paid off. South Africa emerged triumphant, shaking off the pain of a 2018 final defeat and silencing doubters. But Ellis is clear: yesterday’s success means nothing now.

“We respect our past, but we’re laser-focused on our future. We want to evolve. This is about building depth, improving set pieces, refining our game management, and staying defensively sound.”

A Relentless Pursuit of Consistency

Under Ellis, Banyana Banyana has become a model of consistency. That’s no accident.

“Consistency doesn’t come from luck. We work for it. We’re constantly refreshing the squad, analysing what worked and what didn’t, and preparing for the unexpected. We never waste a loss, we learn from everyone.”

The team’s resilience is built not only on talent but also on trust, character, and a culture of accountability.

Beyond Awards: A Mission That Inspires

Her personal accolades — four CAF Coach of the Year titles — don’t distract her from the bigger picture.

“For me, it’s not about trophies. It’s about opening doors for the next generation of girls who want to be footballers, coaches, or leaders. Every step we take widens the path for those coming after us.”

Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis celebrates with team and SAFA leadership

Ellis remains deeply inspired by the players she coaches. “They wear the jersey with pride. The sacrifices they make, the challenges they face — it keeps me motivated.”

Africa’s Women’s Football is Transforming

Since Ellis took charge, women’s football on the continent has undergone a sea change.

“When I started, women’s football was often an afterthought. Now we see full-time contracts, proper facilities, and professional coaching in many countries. There’s the CAF Women’s Champions League, and nations like Zambia, Morocco, and Botswana are no longer underdogs.”

African players are now making waves globally — from Europe to the U.S. That international exposure is improving domestic teams, raising expectations, and increasing pressure — all signs of a growing game.

“There’s more coverage, bigger crowds, and real competition. But we’re not done. We need stronger youth pathways, better leagues, and long-term investment.”

Fresh Faces, New Leaders

While seasoned names like Refiloe Jane, Jermaine Seoposenwe, and Andile Dlamini remain pillars of the team, Ellis is excited by the next wave.

Banyana Banyana team celebrates with President Cyril Ramaphosa

“Karabo Dhlamini has grown into a leader. Bongeka Gamede is another who could shine this year. The talent is there and we’re nurturing it.”

Lessons from 2022

Looking back at the 2022 WAFCON win, Ellis is quick to point out that the title wasn’t won on talent alone.

“We weren’t rigid. We adapted to different opponents but stayed true to our style. Sometimes it came down to one tackle or one moment of composure. The team behind the scenes, even the players who didn’t start made all the difference.”

New Challenges, Same Resolve

This time around, the challenges are different. “We’re no longer chasing history. We’re carrying it,” Ellis says. “There’s pressure, expectations. We’ve had injuries, players adjusting from different leagues, and new faces coming in. But this challenge is pushing us — and that’s a good thing.”

More Than a Title Defence

“Only Nigeria has defended this title before. We’ve already made history by winning WAFCON and reaching the last 16 at the World Cup. But winning it again — back-to-back — would be massive. It would inspire our nation, attract sponsors, and open doors for our players.”

Since that 2022 triumph, many Banyana players have secured moves abroad, showcasing the increasing value of South African talent.

A Full-Circle Moment

As someone who once captained Banyana Banyana and now leads them as a coach, Ellis finds deep meaning in her role.

“It’s incredibly emotional guiding this team into another WAFCON, this time as defending champions. I know the pressure they feel because I’ve been there. Now I use that experience to support and uplift them.”

Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis in training with her squad

With Ellis at the helm, Banyana Banyana is more than just a football team, it’s a movement, a message, and a mirror reflecting the progress of women’s football on the continent.

As South Africa heads to Morocco, the mission is clear: not just to defend a title, but to grow the game, inspire a nation, and prove once again that African women belong on the world stage.