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Having beaten Mozambique 5-0 at the weekend, Mkhonza said on Monday he had decided to cut Durban Ladies defender, Charlotte Mshengu and two goalkeepers - Mahlatsi Mogola of TUT ladies and Primrose Ndlozi of TK Stars - from his original squad of 21.
Speaking ahead of the clash against their neighbours at the Sinaba Stadium in Daveyton, Mkhonza admitted it had been a difficult decision.
"I didn't know who to leave behind and to be honest it was a very difficult decision to make," Mkhonza said.
"The three players I dropped were just unfortunate, but the door is not shut for them. They should just continue training hard and they will be rewarded."
Mkhonza added that the victory over Mozambique was much needed, and said he was encouraged to see the team in good form.
"Following yesterday's [Sunday's] excellent performance, I believe we are growing into a formidable squad," he said.
The friendly also allowed Mkhonza to experiment with new combinations and at the same time award five new players their first caps.
"I gave five new players some international experience and I personally felt their performances were outstanding, though there are still areas that need attention.
"But with time that can be worked out. Given what we have seen over the past two weeks, we have the potential to grow as a national team and rise in rankings on the continent as well as in the world."
Banyana Banyana squad:
Andile Dlamini, Nkosingiphile Zungu, Gabisile Hlumbane, Nothando Vilakazi, Nelisiwe Mchunu, Lebogang Mabatle, Janine Van Wyk, Nwabisa Kolisi, Amanda Dlamini, Nocawe Skiti, Nomathemba Ntsibande, Nomawethu Nyusani, Memory Makhanya, Noko Matlou, Zingawe Phakathi, Silindile Ngubane, Shiwe Nogwanya, Zamandosi Cele.
