Johannesburg – South Africa’s women soccer national team, Banyana Banyana, sealed their place at the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic 1–0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo on last night, with Thembi Kgatlana delivering the decisive blow in the dying moments of the match.
The result ensured South Africa’s qualification for next year’s continental showpiece, to be held once again in Morocco, following a 1–1 draw in the first leg played in Kinshasa on Saturday.
Coach Thinasonke Mbuli’s decision to recall Kgatlana to the starting lineup proved inspired. The star forward was lively throughout the encounter, coming close to scoring in the 36th minute with a dazzling run and strike that forced a fine save from the Congolese goalkeeper.
The tightly contested affair saw both teams create chances, with Banyana goalkeeper Andile Dlamini keeping her side in the game early in the second half when she pulled off a crucial one-on-one stop.
Just as the game seemed destined for another stalemate, Kgatlana produced a moment of brilliance in the 90th minute pressing high, dispossessing a defender, and sprinting clear before calmly slotting home to send the home fans into jubilation.
With the win, South Africa continue their impressive run under Mbuli and will look to build on their strong momentum as they aim to defend their continental crown in Morocco.
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