WAFCON Qualifier: Banyana Banyana snatch crucial away goal despite missing stars and coach Ellis

Banyana Banyana showed grit and resilience as they battled to a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first leg of their CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa on Wednesday night, all while missing several key players and head coach Desiree Ellis.

South Africa’s senior women’s national team took the lead through a composed finish by Kgalebane “Pana” Mohlakoana in the first half. But the hosts responded just before the break, with Ruth Kipoyi Monique levelling the score on the stroke of halftime.

Tactical Shifts and Gritty Resolve

With Ellis absent from the touchline, assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli took charge and made a triple substitution in the second half, bringing on Nthabiseng Majiya, Linda Motlhalo, and Nonhlanhla Mthandi in a bid to regain control. Despite their efforts, Banyana couldn’t find the winner but held firm to secure a valuable away goal.

Mbuli on the Performance and the Bigger Picture

“We had two goals coming here,” Mbuli said. “One was to get the result and make sure we didn’t lose, and the other was to get an away goal—or two if possible. I’m a bit disappointed in our second-half performance because we allowed them to attack more, but the draw and the away goal are important.”

Mbuli also acknowledged the strength of the opposition and the rising standard of women’s football across Africa.

“The DRC has three international players, including one who plays for PSG in the Women’s Champions League. That tells you how strong they are. The game in Africa is evolving, with more players competing abroad, making it more tactical and competitive.”

Reinforcements Incoming for the Return Leg

Banyana Banyana returned to South Africa immediately after the match and are expected to land in Johannesburg early Thursday morning. The squad will be bolstered ahead of the second leg on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, with the return of key players Amogelang Motau, Hilda Magaia, Thembi Kgatlana, and Sinoxolo Cesane.

With Desiree Ellis expected back on the sidelines and a full-strength squad at her disposal, Banyana will be aiming to finish the job in front of their home fans and book their ticket to WAFCON 2026.