South Africa’s senior women’s national football team, Banyana Banyana, have secured their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) set to be held in Morocco. The team sealed qualification with a dramatic late victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Tuesday evening.
Banyana triumphed with a 1-0 win in the second leg of the qualifier at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Kinshasa. This handed them a 2-1 aggregate victory over the DRC.
A moment of magic from forward Thembi Kgatlana saw her net the decisive goal in a match where Banyana’s defence stood tall under pressure. The home side controlled the ball in the first half, creating several scoring opportunities. However, the DRC grew bolder after the break, threatening to upset Banyana’s qualification hopes.
Despite the mounting pressure, Banyana’s backline remained solid, paving the way for Kgatlana’s match-winner, ensuring their spot at the tournament scheduled for March 2026.
Acting coach Thinasonke Mbuli, as reported by OFM Sport, lauded the team’s grit and composure. “We were frustrated towards the end because it was 0-0 and they were coming at us. I give credit to the defenders for handling the pressure so well,” she said.
Mbuli highlighted the challenge of preparing for WAFCON, with the tournament falling during the domestic league’s off-season. “Our players in December will be off, and by the beginning of March, WAFCON starts. We’re going to have to find a balance between the off-season and keeping players active,” she noted.
To keep the squad sharp, Mbuli confirmed plans to use the November FIFA international window for a friendly match to maintain match fitness.
Defender Lebohang Ramalepe earned the Queen of the Match award for her stellar defensive performance and leadership on the pitch.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
Source: Morgan Piek/OFM Sport
