From left, Noko Matlou, Refiloe Jane, Nothando Vilakazi and Nompumelelo Nyandeni celebrate Vilakazi's 100th Banyana Banyana cap. Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix From left, Noko Matlou, Refiloe Jane, Nothando Vilakazi and Nompumelelo Nyandeni celebrate jane's 100th Banyana Banyana cap. Photo: BackpagePix
Image: Backpagepix
As Banyana Banyana prepares to defend their title at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in Morocco this July, the team is also set to bid farewell to two of its most iconic players.
Noko Matlou and Mpumi Nyandeni, whose contributions have shaped South African women’s football, will play their final matches for the national team in two friendlies against Malawi — on Saturday, April 5 and Tuesday, April 8.
These matches will not only serve as valuable preparation for coach Desiree Ellis and her squad ahead of Wafcon but also as a heartfelt send-off for two veterans who have represented South Africa with pride and distinction for many years.
Their retirements mark the end of an era for Banyana, and these games will be a poignant farewell for the players who have inspired countless South Africans.
Matlou, who made her debut for South Africa in 2007 against Nigeria, is one of the most capped players in the country’s football history.
With over 170 caps, she is the second-most capped South African footballer of all time, only behind Janine van Wyk, who has 185 caps.
In recognition of her legacy, Ellis said, “She was the first (South African) player to win the African Player of the Year. She’s been to the Olympics, she’s been to the World Cup, she’s won a Wafcon gold medal… Noko has done everything. She’s given great service. Even if she didn’t play, she was still a model professional," remarked Ellis.
Nyandeni, 37, has been a stalwart of the national team since her debut in 2002. Though she last played for Banyana Banyana in 2019, she will earn her 150th international cap in the upcoming friendly against Malawi.
“Mpumi came in as a 15-year-old. I was sort of stepping out (of playing for Banyana), and she was stepping in. She was a revelation, very gifted and skilful. She’s part of a lot of the success of the national team… We cannot thank her enough,” recalled Ellis.
Together, Matlou and Nyandeni were part of the historic 2012 London Olympics team — the first time Banyana qualified for the prestigious tournament.
Their influence on the national team cannot be overstated, and they have both played a huge role in elevating the profile of women’s football in South Africa.
Reflecting on their shared journey, Nyandeni said, “Noko and I did our part. Now we’re making way for the young kids. I’m happy that Noko is still playing overseas… She did her best. I’m happy to be retiring at the same time as her.”
As Banyana Banyana looks to the future, the legacy of Matlou and Nyandeni will continue to inspire the next generation. Their leadership, skill, and professionalism have set a standard that will guide the team long after they step away from the international stage.