The Moroccan dust may have settled, but the journey for Dr. Desiree Ellis and Sasol Banyana Banyana continues with renewed determination. After an emotionally charged 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign filled with dramatic moments, historic victories, and hard-fought battles, South Africa’s senior women’s national team has already shifted its focus toward the next major objective: securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Banyana Banyana’s campaign in Morocco showcased the qualities that have transformed them into one of Africa’s most respected football nations. From producing a memorable victory over continental giants Nigeria to pushing hosts Morocco in a demanding quarter-final encounter, the tournament provided valuable lessons that could shape South Africa’s next chapter.
With the World Cup play-offs approaching, the technical team now faces the task of turning those lessons into a winning formula.
WAFCON 2026 Lessons: Resilience Remains the Foundation
Banyana Banyana’s rise over recent years has been built on courage, unity, and the ability to compete under pressure. Those characteristics were once again evident during their Moroccan adventure.
Mental Strength Against the Best
The quarter-final clash against tournament hosts Morocco tested South Africa’s character. Despite falling two goals behind in a hostile environment, Ellis’ team refused to surrender.
The response was a reminder of the fighting spirit that inspired their historic 2022 WAFCON triumph. Thembi Kgatlana’s 67th-minute goal injected belief into the team and demonstrated that Banyana Banyana possess the resilience needed to compete against the world’s best.
The Perfect Balance Between Youth and Experience
The tournament also highlighted the importance of maintaining the right blend between established leaders and emerging stars.
Experienced figures such as Thembi Kgatlana and Hildah Magaia continue to provide attacking quality and leadership, while a new generation of players is gradually being introduced into the national team environment.
Finding the perfect balance between experience and youthful energy will be crucial as South Africa prepares for the challenges ahead.
The Road to Brazil 2027: A New Challenge Awaits
The next opportunity for global qualification comes through the FIFA Women’s World Cup Play-Off Tournament, where Banyana Banyana will battle for a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Following the official draw, South Africa discovered their opponents for the Preliminary Phase, scheduled to take place from 24 November to 5 December 2026.
Banyana Banyana have been drawn in a group featuring:
- Chinese Taipei
- Ecuador
- Uzbekistan
The format leaves no room for complacency. Only the top two teams from the group will progress to the final inter-confederation knockout stage in February, meaning every match carries enormous significance.
For Ellis and her technical team, preparation must be precise. A strong opening performance could set the foundation for another historic qualification campaign.
Key Areas of Focus Before the Play-Offs
As Banyana Banyana prepare for their global qualification mission, several areas will require attention.
1. Maintaining Competitive Sharpness
Match fitness will be critical. The coaching staff must ensure that both locally and internationally based players remain at the highest competitive level through domestic leagues, international windows, and upcoming qualifiers.
Regular exposure to high-pressure matches will help the squad arrive in November ready for the intensity of World Cup qualification football.
2. Improving Efficiency in the Final Third
While Banyana Banyana have developed into a tactically disciplined side, converting chances consistently will be vital against unfamiliar opponents.
The technical team will look to maximise the attacking threat of players like Kgatlana and Magaia while improving defensive transitions to avoid conceding early goals.
3. Strengthening the Foundation Around the Team
The continued growth of women’s football in South Africa requires collective support from administrators, sponsors, and football stakeholders.
With increased attention on the women’s game, Banyana Banyana enter this new phase with the responsibility of carrying the hopes of a nation while also benefiting from a stronger support structure.
The Final Push Towards History
Banyana Banyana’s journey has always been defined by progress. From ending decades of disappointment with their first WAFCON title in 2022 to competing regularly against Africa’s strongest teams, South Africa’s women’s national team has established itself as a continental force.
The disappointment of exiting WAFCON 2026 earlier than hoped will fuel their motivation rather than define their campaign.
With Dr. Desiree Ellis providing experienced leadership from the technical area and a squad filled with talent, determination, and belief, Banyana Banyana now have another opportunity to create history.
The road to Brazil 2027 will not be easy, but South Africa’s champions have already shown they have the character to overcome challenges. The next chapter begins in November, and the mission is clear: earn their place on football’s biggest stage once again.
