{
  "id": 13946480,
  "title": "Desiree Ellis excited as Banyana Banyana’s squad depth grows",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/12/desiree-ellis-excited-as-banyana-banyanas-squad-depth-grows",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-12T11:45:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/sport/soccer/banyana/2026-10-12-desiree-ellis-excited-as-banyana-banyanas-squad-depth-grows/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Banyana Banyana's head coach Desiree Ellis is addressing calls for a team revamp by implementing a plan for the squad's future. During the 4-0 victory over Madagascar in the 2028 Olympic qualifiers' first leg, Ellis provided playing time to several new faces. Striker Ronnel Donnelly scored a hat-trick, while Siyamthanda Qashani and Zoe October also made their debuts in the absence of some senior players. Ellis expressed satisfaction with the integration of the new players and reiterated her belief in the entire group. She acknowledged the importance of planning for the future and integrating newcomers into the squad while still relying on the seniors. Ellis noted that not all expected starters played and emphasized the need to give opportunities to those who haven't played yet. With one foot in the third round of qualifiers, Ellis is expected to bring in more new faces in the return leg against Madagascar. She will also focus on tactical flexibility and combinations as the team prepares for the World Cup qualifiers later in the year.",
  "summary": "Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis believes expanding her squad depth and testing new tactical combinations are crucial as South Africa begin building towards future international competitions.",
  "key_points": [
    "Desiree Ellis aims to revamp Banyana Banyana squad.",
    "New players Ronnel Donnelly, Siyamthanda Qashani, and Zoe October debut.",
    "Ellis plans to bring more new faces before World Cup qualifiers."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}