WAFCON 2026 qualifiers: Banyana Banyana share spoils with DR Congo

Banyana Banyana failed to make their dominance count in their 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations qualifier following a 1-1 draw away to DR Congo on Wednesday.

South Africa, who needed to win the two-legged qualifier to seal their ticket to next year’s continental tournament, fielded a largely youthful team and struggled to break down their hosts until late in the first half.

It was DR Congo-based forward Kgalebane Mohlakoana who broke the deadlock after 42 minutes, giving Banyana Banyana, who were without coach Desiree Ellis, the lead after a defensive mistake from the hosts.

Banayana Banyana fail to hold onto lead

Bonolo Mokoma stole the ball in the box before squaring to Mohlakoana who had an easy job slotting home for the 2022 champions.

However, the lead did not last as the Congolese equalised shortly after, Ruth Monique Kipoyi drawing the home side level on the stroke of halftime.

There were no further goals in the second half, even with 10 minutes added on, but South Africa will feel confident that they secured an away goal that will be vital in the second leg.

Who will be available for the second leg?

The return match will take place at FNB Stadium on Tuesday October 28 when Banyana Banyana will have some of their big hitters back.

Mexico-based quartet Thembi Kgatlana, Hilda Magaia, Amogelang Motau and Sinoxolo Cesane did not make it for the first leg but will link up with the rest on Thursday ahead of the return match.

Banyana Banyana were playing their first match in three months since losing on post-match penalties to Ghana in the third-place playoff at WAFCON 2024 on July 25.