Banyana Banyana have put themselves in a good position to qualify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after recording a 1-1 draw away to DR Congo in the first leg of their second-round qualifying tie on Tuesday.
The match at the Pentecost Martyrs Stadium saw South Africa claim the lead via Kgalebane Mohlakoana late in the first half, as she swept home a left-footed shot after good set up play from Bonolo Mokoma down the left flank.
However, Banyana’s lead was short lived, with the DRC equalising via Ruth Monique just before the interval.
The second half saw the sides cancel each other out, though South Africa will certainly be the happier of the two, as they head into the return game at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg next Tuesday holding an advantage on away goals.
The winner of the second-round tie will qualify for the expanded 16-team WAFCON, which will be held in Morocco in March and April next year.
Banyana Banyana, WAFCON champions in 2022 and four-time runners-up, will be looking to appear at the continental tournament for the 14th time.
