TotalEnergies CAF Women’s AFCON Morocco 2026: South Africa books ticket to Morocco after dramatic tie

After a thrilling two-legged encounter with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Banyana Banyana have qualified for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026.

Over two intense matches, the South Africans prevailed with an aggregate score of 2–1, demonstrating both their resilience and mental toughness in decisive moments.

Eventful first leg in Kinshasa

The first leg in Kinshasa started at a high pace. The Congolese, buoyed by home advantage, quickly showed offensive intent. But it was South Africa who struck first in the 42nd minute, as Kgaelebane Mohlokoane exploited a momentary lapse in the opposition defense to beat the goalkeeper.

The Democratic Republic of Congo responded quickly. In first-half stoppage time, Ruth Kipoyi equalized for the hosts in the 45+1st minute.

This late equalizer promised a tense return leg for South Africa, but the team remained composed.

Decisive return leg in Johannesburg

Back in Johannesburg, Banyana Banyana knew that only a win would guarantee qualification. The match intensity was palpable, with chances at both ends and growing tension.

For 90 minutes, both teams cancelled each other out, defending rigorously. But in stoppage time (90+1’), star striker Thembi Kgatlana emerged to score the winning goal. Her clinical strike secured a crucial 1–0 victory, enough to win the tie 2–1 on aggregate.

Road to the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2026

First round:
Exempted

Second round:

First leg: South Africa 1–1 DR Congo

Second leg: South Africa 1–0 DR Congo

Aggregate score: South Africa wins 2–1

South Africa at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations

First participation: 1998

Number of participations: 14 (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2016, 2018, 2022, 2024 & 2026)

Best performance: Winners (2022)

Head coach: Desiree Ellis

Captain: Refiloe Jane