Banyana Banyana will kick off their 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign against Tanzania in Casablanca, Morocco, on Monday evening, with coach Dr Desiree Ellis determined to start the tournament on a high.
The 2022 African champions, who are in Group B alongside Tanzania, Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso, believe a victory in their opening match will set the tone for the rest of the competition.
“The first match is very important as it sets the tone for the rest of the tournament. We have prepared extremely well, but what will be key is to keep a clean sheet and control the game,” said Ellis.
Captain Refiloe Jane expects a tough challenge from Tanzania but believes South Africa can get the result they need.
“Tanzania is not going to be easy. We have to ensure that whatever chance we get we capitalise and score. You win your first game, and you move on with high confidence,” said Jane.
The match could also see midfielder Linda Motlhalo earn her 100th senior appearance for Banyana Banyana if she is named in the starting line-up. The tournament’s four semi-finalists will secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
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