2026 WAFCON: Confidence fuels DR Congo ahead of decisive South Africa showdown

The Democratic Republic of Congo head into their crucial second-leg clash against South Africa in Johannesburg on Tuesday with confidence and determination as they chase qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Despite being viewed by many as underdogs against the reigning 2022 African champions, the Leopards insist they are not travelling merely to make up the numbers.

Their first-leg performance, full of attacking intent but wastefulness in front of goal, has strengthened belief that a famous upset remains possible.

A fearless mindset and refusal to accept a pre-written script have become central to their approach.

The visitors are well aware they face a side accustomed to major-tournament success, yet they also recognise vulnerabilities in South Africa’s ranks.

With the Banyana Banyana regarded as a team approaching the end of a dominant competitive cycle, DR Congo see an opportunity to take control of their own destiny if they can sustain pressure and convert the chances they create this time around.

Forward Flavine Mawete, one of the team’s most influential figures, stressed that the objective is simple and achievable if focus and execution improve.

The goal is to win the match and qualify. We are motivated and focused. We had a lot of chances without scoring one. We will fix that tomorrow. The coach spoke to us and showed us some important things. We will correct our mistakes from last time. They are a great team, we are a great team too, we will try to dominate them. We still have hope, reassured Flavine Mawete.

The Dux Logroño attacker has developed a reputation for decisive contributions on the big stage.

Her memorable curling strike against Morocco at the 2024 tournament showcased her instinct for timing and precision when space opens between defenders.

With her ability to glide through lines, create overloads and stretch defensive structures, Mawete is expected to be decisive in the tactical battle.

Her strong chemistry with the supporting striker in both a 3-5-2 system and an alternative 4-2-3-1 offers DR Congo crucial flexibility as they weigh how to best unsettle a South African defence that looked disorganised in stretches of the first leg.

The technical staff are confident that sharper transitions and quicker combinations in the final third will provide the clinical edge that went missing previously.

The message within the Congolese camp remains consistent: respect the champions, but fear no one. For a team hungry to rewrite expectations, Tuesday represents an unmissable chance to prove they belong among the continent’s leading sides.