Banyana's WAFCON qualification hopes hinge on decisive second leg against DR Congo

BANYANA Banyana’s 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualification hopes will hinge on their decisive second-leg clash against the DR Congo, set to take place at Dobsonville Stadium tonight (7pm kickoff).

- OBAKENG MELETSE

South Africa returned home with a vital 1-1 draw from the first leg of the qualifier in Central Africa last week. With everything to play for, the aggregate winner will book their ticket to Morocco next year to compete against the continent's best.

For the first time in this round of qualifiers, assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli will have access to her full squad for the crucial second leg, with the overseas-based quartet of Amogelang Motau, Hilda Magaia, Sinoxolo Cesane and Thembi Kgatlana all available for selection.

Banyana will not only be fighting for qualification but also seeking redemption after losing their WAFCON crown earlier this year. Their title defence ended in disappointment following a 2-1 semifinal defeat to eventual champions Nigeria in a tournament also hosted in Morocco.