Andile Dlamini - Banyana Banyana chasing a comeback at WAFCON 2026

This after sealing qualification to the continental showpiece, with a 2-1 aggregate win against DR Congo.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Dlamini says the upcoming WAFCON is personal for the team, having failed to defend the championship in the previous edition.

“Do you know why we want to come back strong in 2026? It is because we want to build a solid team that can easily attract sponsors. We are also grateful that Sasol is back to see us through the journey yet again. We couldn't defend the title in the previous edition - now we look to turn things around and have a successful run,’’ said Dlamini.

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Banyana managed to clinch a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the second leg of the WAFCON Qualifiers at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday night.

Dlamini admits that it was a tough encounter against a physical Congolese side, stating that it is testament to the improved standard of football on the continent.

“It was a tough match, that speaks to the improved standard of football on the African continent, you will no longer find an easy team to play against. We had to dig deep, and remind ourselves why we do what we do - which is play football. The results showed that we truly wanted to find ourselves in the next WAFCON,’’ added Dlamini.

When asked about the strategy to keep a clean sheet to help the team remain on the positive side, with an advantage of an away goal, Dlamini credited teamwork, stating that all her teammates played an important role in contributing to her brilliant performance.

“We had to stick to playing together as a team, and the motivation was clear to make sure that we qualify for WAFCON, and increase our chances to compete in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup,” she expressed.