Banyana Banyana attacker Thembi Kgatlana and goalkeeper Kaylin Swart have been shortlisted for the 2026 CAF Women’s Awards following their stellar performances on the continent.
The CAF officially announced the shortlist of nominees on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, across its social media platforms.
South African shot-stopper Swart has secured a spot in the Goalkeeper of the Year [Women] category. She joins nine other prominent African goalkeepers vying for the top honour. The field also includes Chloe N’gqzi [Algeria], Michaely Bihina [Cameroon], Cynthia Konlan [Ghana], Mercy Sikelo [Malawi], and Fatoumata Karantao [Mali].
Khadija Er-Rmichi [Morocco], Christiana Uzoma [Nigeria], Adji Ndiaye [Senegal], and Hazel Nali [Zambia] to complete the list.
THEMBI KGATLANA IN THE RUNNING FOR CAF’S BEST
On the other hand, talented frontwoman Kgatlana has been named among the nominees for the CAF Player of the Year [Women] award.
Kgatlana features on a competitive 10-player shortlist. This is alongside Marine Dafeur [Algeria], Marie Ngah Manga [Cameroon], Michaely Bihina [Cameroon], Monique Ngock [Cameroon], and Portia Boakye [Ghana].
Tabitha Chawinga [Malawi], Temwa Chawinga [Malawi], Hanane Ait El Haj [Morocco], and Barbra Banda [Zambia] to conclude the shortlist.
BANYANA BANYANA SECURE CAF NOMINATION
Meanwhile, the South African women’s national football team, Banyana Banyana, has been shortlisted for the Women’s National Team of the Year category.
The Desiree Ellis-led side will compete for the crown alongside Algeria, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Malawi, Mali, Morocco, and Nigeria.
The 2026 CAF Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday, 7 December 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria.
For now, Banyana’s main focus is returning to Rabat, Morocco, as they continue their qualification campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
South Africa are one of six nations competing in the Play-off Tournament preliminary phase. The playoffs are scheduled for 28 November to 5 December 2026.
Ellis’ side will kick off their campaign against Chinese Taipei on Saturday, 28 November. They will then take on Ecuador three days later on Tuesday, 1 December. They will wrap up the tournament against Uzbekistan on Saturday, 5 December.
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