Soccer
Late Kgatlana goal seals Bayana’s WAFCON qualification─── MORGAN PIEK 10:39 Wed, 29 Oct 2025
The South African senior women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, has successfully secured qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco following a decisive victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday night.
The qualification was confirmed after a 1-0 win in the second-leg qualifier at Dobsonville Stadium, resulting in a 2-1 aggregate score. The crucial winning goal came from forward Thembi Kgatlana in the final minute, a piece of individual brilliance that epitomises the grit and character of the former WAFCON champions.
The fixture began with Banyana leveraging their 1-1 away-goal advantage from the first leg in Kinshasa. The tactical mandate for the home side was clear – maintain defensive solidity while looking for a goal to seal qualification.
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The first half saw South Africa dominate possession and create numerous chances. The second half, however, presented a sterner test, with DR Congo growing in confidence and threatening on the counter-attack.
Despite the mounting pressure, the South African defence held firm, culminating in Kgatlana's late strike, which definitively secured their place at the WAFCON tournament, scheduled for March next year in Morocco.
Acting coach Thinasonke Mbuli praised the team’s composure and resilience under pressure.
“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.
Looking ahead, Mbuli flagged the logistical challenge posed by the WAFCON timing. With the tournament kicking off in March, coinciding with the domestic league’s off-season, she stressed the need for continued player activity.
“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.”
Banyana Banyana celebrating their late win against DRC. Photo: SAFA
Mbuli confirmed that the team plans to use the final FIFA international window in November for a friendly match to ensure the squad maintains match fitness.
Defender Lebohang Ramalepe was named Queen of the Match for her outstanding defensive display and leadership throughout the fixture.
