Leandra Smeda's Banyana Banyana's WAFCON camp omission raises eyebrows
BANYANA BANYANA
Leandra Smeda, who recently won the Hollywoodbets Super League Player of the Season award, was not named in Banyana Banyana's squad as they prepare for COSAFA and WAFCON.
Image: Photo: Sydney Mahlangu /BackpagePix
A week after Leandra Smeda swept the premier accolades at the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards, she was a notable omission from the 38-member squad named for an alignment camp ahead of the COSAFA and WAFCON tournaments.
Smeda was named Hollywoodbets Super League Player of the Season and Top Goalscorer after concluding the campaign with 22 goals, solidifying her status as one of the most lethal forwards in South African women’s football.
Speaking on national television on Thursday evening, the TS Galaxy Queens striker admitted she was “surprised and disappointed” to be overlooked, finding it hard to believe she could not secure a place in such an enlarged squad.
Appearing on Soccer Africa, Smeda’s exclusion drew shock from panellists, who questioned Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis's decision to omit the league's most prolific player..
The camp, which kicks off on Friday, February 13, aims to sharpen skills and team dynamics ahead of a significant year for the national side
“We are excited about the talent we have brought together for this camp,” said Ellis. “It is essential for us to build cohesion and a strong tactical approach ahead of these major tournaments.”
The COSAFA Women’s Championship will be held from February 18 to March 1 in Polokwane, providing a platform for regional competition and an opportunity for the squad to fine-tune their strategies.
Following this event, the team will transition into the WAFCON, set to take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3. This continuity allows the squad to maintain uninterrupted focus as they aim for success in both tournaments.
Banyana Banyana have been drawn in Group A for the COSAFA Championship, where they will face Malawi, Lesotho, and Angola.
“Every game is a chance for us to showcase our skill and determination,” Ellis added. International-based players are expected to join the camp on 25 February during the Fifa window, further enhancing the squad’s quality during this crucial period.