Banyana Banyana Triumph Over Burkina Faso 1-0 to Secure WAFCON Knockout Stage Berth
Casablanca – Banyana Banyana’s striker Thembi Kgatlana scored the only goal in the match against Burkina Faso on Tuesday night in Casablanca, Morocco, securing South Africa’s place in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament.
Kgatlana found the back of the net in the 21st minute, igniting hopes of progressing to the next round from the second position in Group B.
This goal lifted South Africa from fourth to second place, and after the initial score, Banyana Banyana showcased solid defensive capabilities.
In the second half, the focus shifted to game management and keeping a clean sheet for Banyana over the course of the 90 minutes.
However, tense moments arose during the seven minutes of stoppage time.
Ultimately, Kgatlana’s goal was enough for the team to secure qualification for the WAFCON knockout stage.
In another Group B encounter, Ivory Coast defeated Tanzania 2-1, finishing at the top of the group.
Consequently, both Tanzania and Burkina Faso are set to exit the tournament.
Meanwhile, the South African government has commended Banyana Banyana for their “incredible victory over Burkina Faso.”
“The team embodied South Africa’s dignity and pride,” read a late-night statement from the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
“Throughout the tournament, the squad displayed the discipline and determination that define South African sport.”
The GCIS continued: “We thank the players, technical team, support staff, and all South Africans for backing Banyana Banyana during the tournament.”
“Banyana Banyana’s advance to the next stage of WAFCON 2026 marks another proud chapter in South Africa’s sporting legacy.”