2026 WAFCON: South Africa’s Banyana launch revenge mission with Brazil World Cup ticket in sight

Banyana Banyana are heading into the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) with unfinished business, determined to restore their dominance after surrendering the continental crown in Morocco.

South Africa’s defending champions suffered a disappointing semi-final elimination at the last tournament, ending their hopes of retaining the title they won in 2022. However, coach Desiree Ellis believes the setback has strengthened their resolve as they target two major objectives – reclaiming the Wafcon trophy and securing qualification for the 2027 Fifa Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The upcoming tournament carries added importance, with the competition doubling as Africa’s pathway to the global showpiece. Banyana must finish among the top four teams to earn a place at the World Cup.

Ellis demands focus as Tanzania opener sets the tone

South Africa will begin their campaign against Tanzania on July 27 before facing Ivory Coast four days later and Burkina Faso on August 4 in Group C.

Ellis has urged her players to approach every match with maximum concentration, insisting no opponent can be underestimated in a tournament where World Cup qualification is at stake.

“It’s not just a Wafcon, it is a World Cup qualifying tournament, so I don’t think you can count out anyone. You have to make sure you execute your plans and take it game by game and day by day,” Ellis explained to the media on Wednesday.

The coach identified the opening match against Tanzania as a crucial moment that could shape their entire campaign.

“I think the first game against Tanzania is going to be the most important one, which will set the tone for the rest of the tournament,” she said.

Ellis admitted South Africa’s previous meetings with Tanzania have produced mixed outcomes but warned her team cannot afford complacency.

“We are taking nothing for granted because the World Cup [US, Canada, and Mexico] has shown you that if you underestimate a team, you do it at your own peril,” she added.

Experienced squad chasing historic third World Cup qualification

Banyana Banyana have featured at the last two Women’s World Cups — France 2019 and Australia and New Zealand 2023 — and are aiming to make it three consecutive appearances.

Ellis believes their previous experience at the highest level gives them an advantage, but she has also stressed the importance of unity within the squad, including players who are new to the international stage.

“We’ve been there before, and that helps; there are others who have not been there. We have to make sure that everyone is on the same page,” she said.

The coach revealed she has held discussions with the entire squad to reinforce the importance of their mission in Morocco.

“We will continue preaching that message about how important it is for everyone to step up because at the end of the day, everyone knows why we are here and qualifying for the World Cup is big, and that will hopefully bring more sponsors,” Ellis added.

Banyana Banyana will depart for Morocco on Saturday, with Ellis and her players hoping their return to the tournament stage will mark the beginning of another historic chapter.