Banyana Banyana face DRC without four players as they are set to face the Democratic Republic of Congo for the 2026 WAFCON qualifiers on Wednesday night. Banyana face DRC without these crucial players, which may affect their strategy.
The South African women’s team assembled for camp on Sunday, 19 October, in Johannesburg. Banyana jetted off to Kinshasa to commence their preparations on the same day.
The first leg encounter between the two nations will take place at Pentecost Martyrs Stadium, Kinshasa. The kick-off is scheduled for 19:00.
Banyana had their first training session in DRC on Monday, 20 October, without a complete squad. This comes after Bongeka Gamede arrived later on Monday, and Linda Motlhalo is set to join the squad on Tuesday. However, Banyana face DRC without four players which adds pressure.
THE FOUR BANYANA BANYANA PLAYERS SET TO MISS THE DRC TIE FIRST LEG
Banyana will be without the services of Thembi Kgatlana, Hildah Magaia, Sinoxolo Cesane, and Amogelang Motau in the first leg of the WAFCON qualifier tie against DR Congo. All these players are based in Mexico.
SAFA confirmed that the four players will join the rest of the squad in Johannesburg for the second leg, which is set to be played on Tuesday, 28 October 2025. The second leg between Banyana and DRC will take place at FNB Stadium. However, the kickoff time is yet to be confirmed. Despite missing these players, Banyana face DRC without four players in the initial match but expect to strengthen in the second leg.
“The Mexico-based quartet of Thembi Kgatlana, Hilda Magaia, Sinoxolo Cesane and Amogelang Motau will link up with the team in Johannesburg for the second leg,” said SAFA in a statement on Tuesday.
“These staggered arrivals have been planned into the camp schedule to ensure continuity across both fixtures.
“In the build-up, Banyana Banyana’s preparations will focus on conditioning, tactical cohesion and managing travel transitions to ensure optimal performance across both matches as the team targets progression to WAFCON 2026.”
Meanwhile, according to local reports, coach Desiree Ellis is not part of the squad. This is due to her contract negotiations with SAFA. Assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli is expected to take charge of the national team in the absence of Ellis.
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