Mbuli praises Banyana’s resilience after WAFCON qualification

Banyana Banyana are heading to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The senior women’s national team secured their spot with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo (2-1 on aggregate) at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday night.

Acting coach Thinasonke Mbuli immediately highlighted the team’s composure under intense late-game pressure, praising the defensive unit that ensured the decisive result.

“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,” Mbuli stated after the match.

The qualification was sealed by a dramatic lone strike from star forward Thembi Kgatlana in the final minute of the game. Having secured a crucial 1-1 draw in the first leg in Kinshasa, Banyana Banyana knew a clean sheet would suffice, but Kgatlana’s winner made the result certain. Defender Lebohang Ramalepe was recognised for her outstanding performance and leadership, earning the Queen of the Match accolade.

‘Credit To The Defenders For Absorbing The Pressure’: Mbuli

With qualification secured for the tournament in Morocco next March, Mbuli acknowledged the unique challenge presented by the domestic league schedule.

“The tricky part for us now is that WAFCON is in March and our league is off during that time,” she noted. “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.”

The coach confirmed the team plans to use the upcoming November FIFA window to organise a friendly match to maintain fitness and cohesion before the domestic break.

Despite the loss, DR Congo coach Lukamba Mbayo Omer acknowledged the quality of the South African side, stating his pride in his team’s effort. SAFA president Danny Jordaan also extended his congratulations to the squad following their successful campaign.