Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis says she’ll decide her future after returning from the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Speaking ahead of South Africa’s third-place play-off against Ghana, Ellis made it clear that her focus remains on finishing the tournament strong.
“I’m only thinking about the game tomorrow,” she said. “Once we’re back home, I’ll take a break and then sit down to decide the way forward.”
Ellis has been at the helm since 2016, guiding Banyana to their first-ever WAFCON title in 2022 and two FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances. Despite a semifinal exit to Nigeria and the loss of key midfielder Gabby Salgado to injury, Ellis remains determined to close out the campaign on a high.
If she does step aside, here are five coaches who could be in line to take over:
1. Maud Khumalo – The Proven Interim Leader
Khumalo stepped in as interim coach during the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship and led a youthful Banyana side all the way to the final, where they narrowly lost to Zambia on penalties. A former Banyana midfielder herself, she’s coached across various national youth levels and is known for her calm leadership and ability to develop young talent. Her recent success makes her a strong candidate for the permanent role.
2. Simphiwe Dludlu – The Youth Development Specialist
A former Banyana Banyana captain, Dludlu has been doing excellent work with the U17 national team. She holds a UEFA B License and has coached at FIFA youth tournaments, giving her valuable international experience. Dludlu is respected for her tactical intelligence and her ability to nurture the next generation of stars—qualities that could serve Banyana well in a new cycle.
3. Thina Mbuli – The Continuity Candidate
Mbuli has been part of Desiree Ellis’s technical team for several years and knows the current squad inside out. Promoting her would ensure continuity, especially with the core of the team still intact. She’s tactically astute, trusted by the players, and could offer a seamless transition if SAFA opts to keep things in-house.
4. Anna Monate – The Club-Level Champion
Monate has been part of the coaching team behind Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies’ dominance in both the Hollywoodbets Super League and the CAF Women’s Champions League. Her experience working with elite players and her exposure to high-stakes continental football make her a strong contender for the national job.
5. Janine van Wyk – The Emerging Leader with Elite Experience
South Africa’s most-capped player, Van Wyk is now making her mark as a coach. After captaining Banyana at multiple AFCONs and the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she founded and now coaches JVW FC, a competitive side in the Hollywoodbets Super League. Her coaching style blends discipline, tactical awareness, and emotional intelligence. As someone who’s lived the Banyana journey from the inside, she brings a unique perspective and leadership presence that could inspire the next generation.
