Banyana Banyana one step closer to 2027 World Cup
Banyana Banyana have moved one step closer to qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup after securing a 2-1 victory over Nigeria. The win booked South Africa a place in the inter-confederation play-offs, keeping their World Cup dream alive.
Banyana were forced into the play-off route after their WAFCON quarter-final defeat to Morocco ended their hopes of securing direct qualification. Nigeria had also entered the route after losing to Cameroon the previous Sunday.
Coach Desiree Ellis made one change to her starting line-up, handing Ronnel Donnelly her first start of the tournament in place of Isabella Ludwig.
South Africa dominated possession in the opening half but struggled to create clear-cut chances as Nigeria defended deep.
Asisat Oshoala was also kept quiet by the Banyana defence, with neither side able to break the deadlock before half-time. The breakthrough finally came four minutes before the hour mark.
Hilda Magaia raced down the left before finding Thembi Kgatlana, who calmly finished to score her third goal of the tournament. Nigeria almost responded in the 74th minute when Kanu headed towards goal, but Kaylin Swart produced a superb one-handed save.
Banyana then doubled their lead with 13 minutes remaining. Captain Refiloe Jane pounced on a loose ball and fired home, with her effort taking a deflection on its way into the net.
Jane was sent off in stoppage time for handball, allowing Uchiebe to convert the resulting penalty. However, Banyana held on to secure a crucial victory.
South Africa will now prepare for the inter-confederation play-offs, which begin in November 2026. Five teams from other confederations will stand between Banyana and a place at the 2027 World Cup.
Ghana also kept their hopes alive by beating Ivory Coast 2-1 in Casablanca. The two winners from the WAFCON quarter-final losers’ play-off will advance to the intercontinental qualifiers.
