The countdown is over, and the biggest stage in African women’s football has arrived. The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is officially underway in Morocco, with reigning continental champions South Africa’s Banyana Banyana ready to defend their crown and continue their remarkable journey on the African football landscape.
Led by the experienced and highly respected Dr. Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana enter the tournament with one clear mission — to reclaim their place at the top of African football while securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
South Africa has been drawn into a competitive Group B, where they will face Tanzania, Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso. Each match presents a unique challenge, with valuable points at stake as Banyana Banyana begin their pursuit of another historic WAFCON triumph.
Banyana Banyana’s WAFCON 2026 Group B Fixtures
All match times are listed in South African Standard Time (SAST).
🇿🇦 South Africa vs Tanzania
📅 Monday, 27 July 2026
⏰ 19:00 SAST
📍 Moulay Rachid Stadium, Casablanca
🇿🇦 South Africa vs Ivory Coast
📅 Friday, 31 July 2026
⏰ 19:00 SAST
📍 Moulay Rachid Stadium, Casablanca
🇧🇫 Burkina Faso vs South Africa
📅 Tuesday, 4 August 2026
⏰ 22:00 SAST
📍 Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca
Inside Group B: The Challenges Ahead
Opening Battle: Tanzania Awaits
Banyana Banyana will begin their WAFCON campaign against a determined Tanzanian side at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca.
The East Africans have developed into a competitive force in women’s football, known for their physical approach, defensive organisation, and ability to frustrate opponents.
For Coach Desiree Ellis, making a strong start will be crucial. South Africa will look to rely on their experience, tactical discipline, and attacking quality to secure maximum points and build early momentum in the group.
A positive opening result could provide the foundation for another deep tournament run.
Big Test: Ivory Coast Challenge
The second group encounter brings one of South Africa’s toughest challenges as they face Ivory Coast.
The Ivorians are renowned for their athletic strength, speed, and ability to transition quickly from defence into attack. Their physical style and determination make them a dangerous opponent capable of challenging any team on the continent.
Banyana Banyana will need to remain organised defensively while taking their opportunities in attack. A victory in this fixture could prove decisive in their push for top spot in Group B.
Final Group Clash: Burkina Faso Battle
South Africa will conclude their group stage campaign against Burkina Faso at Stade Larbi Zaouli.
With qualification places on the line, the final group match could carry enormous importance. Banyana Banyana will need composure, concentration, and clinical finishing to secure their position heading into the knockout stages.
Managing the pressure of tournament football will be key as South Africa aims to keep their championship ambitions alive.
WAFCON 2026: More Than Just a Trophy
The 2026 edition of WAFCON promises to be one of the most competitive tournaments in history, with the competition expanded to 16 teams for the first time.
While lifting the prestigious continental trophy remains the ultimate goal, there is also a major reward waiting for the top-performing nations.
🌍 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualification
The four teams that reach the WAFCON 2026 semi-finals will automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Additional qualification opportunities through intercontinental play-offs will also keep the competition intense, ensuring every match carries significant importance.
Banyana Banyana’s Mission: Defend the Crown
After making history by winning their maiden WAFCON title in 2022, South Africa returns to Morocco determined to prove they remain the leading force in African women’s football.
With a blend of experienced internationals, emerging talent, and the guidance of one of Africa’s most successful coaches, Banyana Banyana believe they have what it takes to go all the way again.
The journey begins in Casablanca — and the nation will be watching as South Africa chases another unforgettable chapter in their football history.
Stay tuned for match previews, tactical analysis, squad updates, and exclusive WAFCON 2026 coverage as Banyana Banyana battle for continental glory.
