Desiree Ellis queries Nigeria’s WAFCON dominance as Banyana gear up for title defense

By Dayo Awoniyi

Desiree Ellis, coach of the defending Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions, Banyana Banyana, has expressed astonishment at her team’s exclusion from the list of favorites for this year’s edition in Morocco.

The South African coach questioned why pundits have overlooked her team, instead tipping Nigeria, Zambia, and Morocco as potential winners.

However, Ellis appears to embrace the underdog label, stating it suits her team ahead of the tournament, which is set to begin in Morocco on July 5.

“Even though we are the defending champions, we are not classed as one of the favorites,” Ellis remarked, her tone a mix of surprise and determination.

“We know it’s going to be tough this time, because when you’re the defending champions, you become the one everyone is chasing,” Ellis acknowledged, her eyes gleaming with competitive fire.

Banyana Banyana will begin their title defense with a match against Ghana, and Ellis is already preparing her squad for the challenge.

“Our first game is against Ghana, and we have to make sure we select the right players and cover all our bases,” she said, her voice firm with resolve.

Ellis also drew inspiration from Nigeria’s dominance in the competition, saying, “To be placed in the same bracket as them, you have to earn it.”