Banyana Banyana qualify for 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations

Banyana Banyana have qualified for next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The 2022 African champions secured their spot at the tournament with a 1-0 win against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the second leg of their qualifier at the Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday night.

Star forward Thembi Kgatlana scored the winning goal in the 91st minute to hand Banyana a 2-1 win on aggregate in the tie.

Qualifying for the 2026 edition of WAFCON had added importance as the top 4 nations in that competition will gain automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup which is scheduled to be staged in Brazil.

Despite a dominant first half performance where they controlled possession and creating several chances to score, Banyana were unable to make the most of their opportunities. That kept the DRC in contention in the second half until Kgatlana’s trademark strike sealed the result.  

Acting coach Thinasonke Mbuli praised her team’s composure and resilience under pressure.

"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.

Banyana’s qualification was made more impressive as they were without coach Desiree Ellis, who has yet to sign the new contract she was offered by SAFA. The body will be hoping to resolve the situation soon, as Banyana will have one more international window in November before WAFCON kicks off in March 2026.