Banyana Banyana secure WAFCON qualification

by Staff Reporter

Wednesday Oct 29, 2025. 09:41

South Africa booked its spot at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a 1-0 victory against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the second leg of their qualifying tie at Dobsonville Stadium in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

Banyana Banyana secured a vital away draw in Kinshasa last week, scoring an away goal to head into the second leg tied 1-1.

In order to reach the continental tournament, the hosts need to win or failing that, a draw without conceding.

The home side started well, dominating possession in the first half but failing to capitalise on their chances. However, the DRC grew in confidence, attempting to catch South Africa on the counter in the second half.

With the score locked at 0-0, Thembi Kgatlana struck in stoppage time, handing the hosts victory and qualification as she found the back of the net.

South African defender Lebohang Ramalepe was named Queen of the Match for her sturdy performance in Banyana Banyana’s backline.

Banyana Banyana assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli highlighted the importance of her side’s defence in the second half.

“I mentioned yesterday that we had to win and yes, we were frustrated towards the end of the game because it was 0-0 and they were coming at us. I give credit to the defenders for absorbing the pressure,” she said.

Mbuli emphasised that the squad will have a tough preparation ahead for the WAFCON in Morocco from March to April next year due to the timing of the domestic season.

“We have a window that’s coming up now in November, which is the last FIFA window for the year. We’re hoping we can get a friendly match because the tricky part for us now is that WAFCON is in March and our league is off during that time.

“Our players in December will be off, and by the beginning of March, WAFCON kicks off. We’re going to have to find a balance between players going off-season and remaining active,” she said.

Having reached the semi-finals of the tournament’s previous two editions, Banyana Banyana will have their eyes set on returning to the final four in order to secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

By Nic Gleeson