As Banyana Banyana prepare to face Malawi for the final match of their two-game friendly series, veteran midfielder Nompumelelo Nyandeni will take to the pitch for the last time in national colours. The highly anticipated match kicks off on Tuesday, 9 April 2025, at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville at 15h00.
The fixture will serve as a farewell for Nyandeni, who will mark her 150th and final international appearance. Her contribution to South African football spans over two decades, having debuted for the national team at the age of 15. The 36-year-old has become a symbol of perseverance, passion, and progress in women’s football.
Speaking ahead of the match, Nyandeni expressed her gratitude and excitement:
“I’m excited for my last dance tomorrow. It will be the last time people see me wearing the Banyana Banyana kit. I’m ready for the game and excited as well.”
Banyana Banyana secured a convincing 3-0 victory in the opening match of the series and are looking to end the campaign on a high note. Head coach Dr. Desiree Ellis highlighted the importance of improving their finishing and building momentum ahead of key upcoming fixtures, including the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
“We created a few opportunities in the first game but that needs to be better — and through that, we could have scored more goals,” Ellis said.
The match, originally scheduled for UJ Soweto Campus, was relocated to Lucas Moripe Stadium due to damage caused by adverse weather conditions. Tickets are priced at R50 for adults and R20 for children under 12, available via Ticketpro, with gates opening at 12h00.
This fixture follows the recent farewell of another Banyana legend, Noko Matlou, who concluded her international career during the first match against Malawi. With both Matlou and Nyandeni departing, the team marks the end of an era while focusing on a promising new generation of talent.
