Modiko on Thembi Kgatlana

WAFCON reigning champions Banyana Banyana will play the tournament without their key player Thembi Kgatlana. It is reported that Kgatlana asked not to be part of the team going into the WAFCON due to personal reasons. Banyana Banyana will play against Ghana on Monday 7 July 2025 in Casablanca, Morocco.

UJ ladies coach and former Banyana Banyana star Nthabeleng Modiko told Sebili Molefe on Lesedi FM Tsadipapadi that the team will miss Thembi Kgatlana. "I think preparations are going well despite the absence of Thembi but then ladies will have to work hard and take the responsibility. To be honest, we needed her but sadly she won't be there."

"I'm looking forward to the game against Ghana. It is a must win for us, they have beaten Nigeria in the past in the under 20s. I think they will come hard on us because we are the reigning champions." On the return of Andile Dlamini into the team, Modiko said "she's a legend we really need her experience in order for us to fight for the title. I think her contributions will help the team."