Kgatlana opens up Banyana Banyana absence: what really happened?

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Kgatlana opens up Banyana Banyana absence: what really happened?
Thembi Kgatlana

After months of speculation, Banyana Banyana star Thembi Kgatlana has finally addressed her absence from the national team during the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

She made it clear: there was no fallout, no drama, just family. The Randfontein-born forward, who missed the continental showpiece citing personal reasons, says rumours of a rift with head coach Desiree Ellis or the South African Football Association (SAFA) are unfounded.

“I never had personal issues with anyone,” Kgatlana told the media in Johannesburg as quoted by Centre Circle.

Why did Kgatlana miss initial assignments

Thembi Kgatlana Banyana Banyana 1

“It was something personal I had to deal with, nothing to do with the Federation, just me and my family. I’m grateful to SAFA and my club for the support during that time.”

Kgatlana’s absence was felt as Banyana finished fourth in Morocco, falling short of the podium after a promising start. The Mexico-based striker also missed several club fixtures, reinforcing her point that the issue was not national team-specific.

Her last appearance in national colours came in April against Malawi in a friendly double-header. Since then, she’s missed key clashes against Botswana, Zambia, Ghana, Tanzania, Mali, Senegal, Nigeria and Ghana again. But now, she’s back.

It's an honour to represent the country

“It’s always an honour to represent the country,” she said. “I’m healthy, I’m in good spirits, and I’m ready to contribute.”

Banyana Banyana
Image – CAF Media

Kgatlana, along with fellow Mexico-based players Amogelang Motau, Sinoxolo Cesane and Hilda Magaia, missed Banyana’s 1–1 draw away to DR Congo last Wednesday. All four are available for Tuesday’s return leg at Dobsonville Stadium, a crucial fixture in South Africa’s bid to qualify for the 2026 WAFCON and, ultimately, the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

“We got a vital away goal,” said Kgatlana. “Now we’re at home, we’ve had time to regroup, and we’re confident. The girls did well in Kinshasa, and we’re here to add experience and help push for the win.”

It's about Banyana using the home-ground advantage

The UANL Tigres forward believes Banyana’s qualification chances are strong, especially with key players returning.

“We’ve watched the footage, we know the game plan, and the coaches have brought us up to speed. We saw Congo’s strengths and weaknesses. Now it’s about using our home ground advantage and playing for our fans.”

Asked about the ongoing contract negotiations between coach Ellis and SAFA, Kgatlana was diplomatic.

“That’s political. It’s not my focus. Right now, it’s about the team and getting the result on Tuesday.”

Kickoff at Dobsonville is set for 7pm. The winner over two legs books a ticket to the 2026 WAFCON and takes a step closer to Brazil 2027.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.

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