Banyana Banyana vice-captain Thembi Kgatlana sets record straight on her withdrawal from squad for 2024 WAFCON - 'There is no deeper story'

Banyana Banyana were without forward Thembi Kgatlana at the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations finals.

It was a tournament where their attacking deficiencies were exposed as they bowed out at the semi-final stage at the hands of Nigeria.

Star striker Kgatlana withdrew from the squad before the tournament and has now come out to shed more light on her decision.

“It was difficult for me to watch Banyana Banyana exit WAFCON 2024 from the side lines, but I am proud of the girls’ fight and achievement,” said Kgatlana as per a social media post.

“My absence from the tournament has drawn speculation, but I want to simply clarify that I am taking a pre-arranged leave of absence from all football for personal reasons. I love representing my country and will do so again in the future. 

"To Tigres fans concerned that I have not returned to Mexico, I will see you all again very soon and will continue to give my all for the shirt. There is nothing to worry about and no deeper story. Thank you for all the concerns.”

With Banyana struggling upfront in the absence of Kgatlana, that could be a cause for concern for coach Desiree Ellis.

Should she remain in charge of the national team after the tournament she will need to source the next generation of strikers who can take over from the 29-year-old in the long-term.

This also comes as the current Banyana squad is ageing and might need to be refreshed.

The fact that Kgatlana gave hope that she is available for selection in future could mean that she still has unfinished business with the national team.

Having already been Banyana vice-skipper, this is a player who could take the captaincy from Refiloe Jane when she calls time on her international career.