Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Kaylin Swart believes it’s time for South Africa’s reigning African champions - backed by Sasol - to “write a new book” by defending their Caf Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) crown.
Having clinched the title in 2022, this marks the first time the team returns to Morocco since their historic triumph.
“We have such great memories from Morocco,” said Swart. “In 2022, we were based in Rabat. Now we’re in Casablanca. But the energy feels the same. It’s familiar territory, and we’re excited to be back. Hopefully, that winning spirit from 2022 returns, and we can do it again.”
Swart spoke after a training session in Casablanca, where the squad is finalising preparations before relocating to their base camp in Oujda for the start of the tournament.
“It’s time to write a new book,” she added. “There’s still a lot of work ahead, but if we can repeat history, that would be fantastic. It won’t be easy, but maybe 2024 (or 2025) is shaping up to be a great chapter for us.”
As part of their build-up to Wafcon, Banyana Banyana played a preparatory match against Benin on Saturday, 28 June.
“It’s wild to think kick-off is just days away,” said Swart. “We’re excited. Now it’s about fine-tuning, dotting the Is so that when game day arrives, we’re ready and aiming for that all-important win. That’s our focus.”
Meanwhile, forward Jermaine Seoposenwe has linked up with the squad in Casablanca and is set to begin training with her teammates on Sunday evening, 29 June.
Only Kgaelebane Mohlakoana is yet to arrive in Morocco due to club commitments, but is expected to join the team in the coming days.
South Africa have been drawn in Group C alongside Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania.