Banyana Banyana will continue their preparations for the 2024 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) when they face Botswana at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Wednesday.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)

The friendly in Pretoria forms part of a Three Nations Series which also involves Zambia and promises to give Desiree Ellis’ side a good test in the build-up to their title defence in Morocco.

All three teams will compete in the tournament from 5-26 July, with the Copper Queens in Group A, the Mares in Group B and South Africa in Group C.

The 2022 WAFCON champions are unbeaten in four matches this year, having met Malawi most recently in a double-header on home soil, winning 3-0 and 2-1 on April 5 and 8 respectively.

Banyana Banyana have a good record against Botswana, but are aware of the dangers posed by their neighbours after suffering a heavy 5-0 defeat in their last encounter in Brakpan on 2 July 2023.

Ellis will use the Three Nations Series to try out some new combinations and have a look at some newer players in her squad, with University of Fort Hare duo Renniker Khoza and Michelle Sampson likely to play some part.

“We know Botswana, we’ve played them often enough. They bring the physicality and also the counter-attacking and the pace,” Ellis said.

“It’s very difficult because fans want results, and of course, we also want results, but it’s also about the performance. Putting up a good performance will give you the results you want.

“Not forgetting that the teams we’re playing are also preparing and chasing the same. A victory gives you confidence and momentum going forward.

“So yes, winning while performing well is ideal, but this period is about preparation, giving players opportunities and still aiming for a positive result.”