Cape Town - Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis says the moment has arrived for her and her troops as they compete in their maiden World Cup tournament on Friday.

Ellis' side get their campaign underway a day after the opening ceremony on Saturday when they face a formidable Spain side at the Stade Oceane in Le Havre in their opening Group A match of the 2019 Women’s World Cup.

"It's two years of hard work that has gotten us to this moment," Ellis said. "We're very excited and have been putting in the hard work and we need to give 100% when it comes to match-day.

"We need to make sure that the players are well prepared for our opening game. When the action begins it's all about the players and we need to make sure that they're well prepared and know their individual roles."

The former Banyana captain also thanked the nation for the well wishes they have given the squad and called on them to continue their support as they look to make the country proud.

"They've continuously supported this team through thick and thin and we will make everyone proud because we guarantee that we will be giving everything. Keep on giving us your support, we do it for you and we really really are blessed to have that support."

Kick-off is at 18:00.