The seasoned defender, Janine van Wyk, has been recalled to the Banyana Banyana squad for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Burkina Faso.

Van Wyk, who is the most experienced player in South Africa – both female and male – can break the African record for the most caps if she gets to play.

Van Wyk has represented South Africa in 183 games and trails Egypt's Ahmed Hassen by a single game.

The captain, Refiloe Jane, has not been named in the squad as she is still recovering from an injury she sustained at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The coach, Desiree Ellis, said it’s important to get to a strong start against the largely unknown Burkina Faso.

“We have to make sure that we do well, especially in the first game, so that we take the pressure off playing at home,” said Ellis.

“We all know the pressure of playing at home and how difficult it can be for players. We will make sure that we have enough information on Burkina Faso.”

The first leg of the qualifiers will be played on Thursday and kick-off for this game in Ivory Coast is at 18:00.

Banyana Banyana:

Goalkeepers - Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns), Kaylin Swart (JVW FC), Katlego Moletsane (Royal AM)

Defenders - Karabo Dhlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns), Fikile Magama (UWC), Faith Nokuthula (Blackburn Rovers), Janine Van Wyk (JVW FC), Lebohang Ramalepe (Mamelodi Sundowns), Lonathemba Mhlongo (UWC), Noko Matlou (SD Eibar), Asanda Hadebe (Sunflower WFC)

Midfielders - Linda Motlhalo (Glasgow City), Kholosa Biyana (Mamelodi Sundowns), Sphumelele Shamase (UJ), Amogelang Motau (UWC), Thubelihle Shamase (UJ)

Forwards - Nicole Michael (TS Galaxy), Gabriela Salgado (JVW FC), Samkelisiwe Selana (TS Galaxy), Jermaine Seoposenwe (C.F. Monterrey), Noxolo Cesane (UWC), Wendy Shongwe (Tuks), Hildah Magaia (Sejong Sportstoto WFC), Thembi Kgatlana (Racing Louisville FC)

Morgan Piek OFM Sport