Khabo Zitha encourages Banyana to seize final World Cup opportunity

By Mpumi Manyisi
13th August 2026

Banyana Banyana legend Khabo Zitha says the national team must make the most of their last chance to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, stating that it will also give younger players a chance to gain international exposure.

South Africa’s hopes of securing automatic World Cup qualification suffered a blow after the 2022 champions were eliminated from the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations following a 2-1 quarterfinal defeat to hosts Morocco.

Zitha believes Banyana should make changes to the starting line-up, with fresh legs needed to add height and pace in attack – for when they face Nigeria in the playoffs.

“It is a very big game. We have met before, but this time it is crunch time. We know how to manage the big and strong Nigerian team. Banyana Banyana should make use of this last opportunity to qualify for the World Cup.

“One thing I like about playing on a global stage is that these younger players will get exposure and be noticed amongst their peers at the world’s biggest football showpiece event. I believe we have to change the starting line-up; we need height and pace upfront,” said Zitha.

READ: Cameroon stun hosts Morocco on penalties to reach WAFCON final

Despite concerns over low attendance at stadiums during the tournament, Zitha believes the quality of football on display has highlighted the continued growth of the women’s game on the continent.

“It is unfortunate to witness former champions being knocked out early in the tournament, but this shows that the tournament is growing and becoming unpredictable.

“It is sad that we did not see many football supporters attending games at the stadiums. We keep seeing empty stadiums during matches, but that did not discourage the players. Just look at the skill and talent we keep seeing in the competition. I believe the standard of women’s football is growing in Africa,” added Zitha.

“This year’s edition is truly heated; most teams came to compete. Just look at Malawi - coming in as underdogs and ending up knocking the defending champions out of the competition. Who would have thought?

“Look at them now, they are where nobody thought they would be. I am very proud of the way they are re-shaping women’s football on the continent.”