Sports
One Last Dance: Jermaine Seoposenwe’s WAFCON Farewell Could Ignite Banyana’s Title Defence

As Banyana Banyana gears up to defend their crown at this year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), one emotional storyline is already taking centre stage: Jermaine Seoposenwe’s final bow in national colours.
The 32-year-old striker, a key figure in South African football for more than a decade, shocked fans this week with the announcement that she’ll be retiring from international duty after WAFCON 2025. Her decision has sparked an outpouring of emotion across social media, and former captain Janine van Wyk believes this could be the emotional glue that binds the squad even tighter.
A Farewell Worth Fighting For
“Moments like these can unite a squad,” said Van Wyk in an interview with SABC Sport. “Knowing it’s Jermaine’s last tournament could give the team that extra push to win it for her.”
Van Wyk, who captained Banyana Banyana through some of their toughest and proudest moments, sees this as an opportunity for the team to dig deep. “It’s not just about defending a title. It’s about giving one of our legends the send-off she deserves.”
Jermaine’s announcement has dominated South African football conversations this week, with fans calling her a “warrior,” “unsung hero,” and “the heart of the team.” She’s been there in the trenches for Banyana, from heartbreaking qualifiers to glorious finals, and her final outing is set to be an emotional one for the players and fans alike.
No Thembi, No Problem?
Adding to the WAFCON drama is the absence of star forward Thembi Kgatlana, who requested to be excused from the tournament due to personal reasons. It’s a tough blow, but Van Wyk isn’t ready to hit the panic button.
“Yes, it’s a loss. But remember, in 2022 we won the tournament with Thembi injured for most of it,” she said. “The coaches will find a way. There’s depth in this team.”
That 2022 squad showed grit in the face of adversity, and the current crop may need to channel that same spirit. Coach Desiree Ellis will have her hands full tweaking tactics and building chemistry, especially with such high expectations and missing key players.
Are Banyana Ready?
While emotions are high, Van Wyk raised concerns over Banyana’s pre-tournament form. The friendlies leading up to WAFCON, she said, haven’t been convincing.
“There were too many rotations. It felt like the coaches are still testing combinations when they should be solidifying their best XI,” she explained. “The players need to trust the system. At this point, you want to see automatic understanding between them.”
There’s a risk, she added, that Banyana might be searching for rhythm when the tournament kicks off — not ideal when the margins are tight and pressure mounts fast.
A Legacy in the Making
Despite the challenges, this WAFCON feels different. With Jermaine preparing for her final curtain call and a nation ready to rally behind the team, Banyana has more than just a trophy to play for.
They have a legacy to protect. A sister to honour. And a story that could end in poetic, gold-clad fashion.
As fans prepare their green and gold kits and the countdown to kick-off begins, all eyes will be on one player who’s given everything to the game. Whether or not Banyana goes all the way, one thing is certain: Jermaine Seoposenwe’s final dance will be remembered.
Source:Sabc Sport
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