Ellis makes two changes to Banyana's World Cup squad for trip to America

Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has unveiled her 23-player squad for the upcoming international friendlies against the United States.

The encounters are slated for Thursday, 21 September (Friday, 22 September at 01:30 SA time) at the TQL Stadium in Cincinnati and three days later, Sunday, 24 September (23:30 SA time) in Chicago at the 61 500-seater Soldier Field Stadium.

The South Africans are gearing up for their first match since the historic achievement of qualifying for the knockout stages of the FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Ellis has tweaked her squad slightly from the 23 that represented South Africa at the World Cup, with captain Refiloe Jane and Bambanani Mbane remaining sidelined as they nurse injuries.

In their place, Ellis has selected Lonathemba Mhlongo of UWC, while Sinoxolo Cesane also gets a call-up. She plays in the US for East Tennessee State. 

These games bear special significance for the four-time world champions, the USA, as they bid farewell to their iconic player, Megan Rapinoe.

Having declared her impending retirement from professional football by the year's end, these games will serve as a fitting tribute to her illustrious career.

Goalkeepers: Andile Dlamini, Kaylin Swart, Kebotseng Moletsane

Defenders: Karabo Dhlamini, Fikile Magama, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Noko Matlou, Bongeka Gamede, Lonathemba Mhlongo

Midfielders: Kholosa Biyana, Sinoxolo Cesane, Sibulele Holweni, Linda Motlhalo, Nomvula Kgoale, Robyn Moodaly

Forwards: Jermaine Seoposenwe, Thembi Kgatlana, Noxolo Cesane, Melinda Kgadiete, Wendy Shongwe, Hildah Magaia, Gabriela Salgado

The matches for will also serve as an opportunity for the Banyana head coach to fine tune her charges for four important