“This Belongs To Them”: Kgatlana
Banyana Banyana striker Thembi Kgatlana has reflected on her side’s hard-fought journey to the quarterfinals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), praising the team’s resilience after a challenging start to their campaign.
South Africa secured their place in the WAFCON quarterfinals with a 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso on Tuesday, with Kgatlana scoring the only goal of the match to keep Desiree Ellis’ side’s title hopes alive.
Banyana went into their final Group B match under pressure after failing to win either of their opening two fixtures. They suffered a 2-1 defeat to Tanzania in their opener before being held to a 2-2 draw by Ivory Coast in their second match.
Ivory Coast went on to top Group B, while South Africa knew they needed a victory over Burkina Faso, along with a favourable result in the other group match between Ivory Coast and Tanzania, to advance to the knockout stages.
Both results went Banyana’s way on Tuesday. Kgatlana’s goal secured the vital win over Burkina Faso, while Ivory Coast’s victory against Tanzania ensured South Africa progressed to the quarterfinals.
Reflecting on the victory, Kgatlana praised the team’s collective effort and highlighted the resilience that has become synonymous with South African football.
“It was a really great team effort,” she said after the match.
“I think in the history of South African football, this team always comes back to perform.
“And we knew how important it was for us to first get this victory, and then we’ll see everything that comes from it.”
Kgatlana was also recognised for her individual contribution, receiving the Player of the Match award after scoring the decisive goal that sent Banyana into the quarterfinals.
The forward admitted the accolade had given her a timely confidence boost after what she described as a slow start to the tournament.
“For me, it’s a boost personally,” she added.
“I started the tournament slowly, especially in the first game, and I think I’m building momentum.
“And thanks to my teammates, I don’t think I would be here today if it wasn’t for them, for their encouragement, and for helping me through all the challenges and difficulties we face every day in training. This award belongs to them more than it belongs to me.”
Banyana will now turn their attention to the quarterfinals, where they will face hosts Morocco on Saturday. The match will carry added significance for Ellis’ side, as a place in the semifinals will also secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
