Moodaly-Salgado says the team is mentally ready for Morocco test

South Africa booked their place in the last eight after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso on Tuesday night in Casablanca, with Thembi Kgatlana scoring the winner and earning the Player of the Match accolade.

Moodaly-Salgado says the squad understands the magnitude of the occasion and is focused on the task ahead.

“We knew we had to secure a win in our last group stage match. We were excited to qualify for the last eight and to go into the game against Morocco. We know what is at stake, and we are preparing well for the fixture. Mentally, we are ready; we just need to go out there and give our very best,” said Moodaly-Salgado.

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The midfielder also celebrated a personal milestone, earning her 50th international cap for Banyana Banyana against Burkina Faso. She gave a big thanks to those who have supported her throughout her career.

“My journey has not been easy. I thank God, I thank my family, and I thank South Africa for supporting me and the entire team throughout,” added Moodaly-Salgado.

The motivated attacker believes Banyana Banyana must produce a disciplined performance against Morocco if they are to progress to the semi-finals.

“We started the tournament with a defeat, followed by a draw, and eventually won our final group-stage match. We know the quarter-final against Morocco will not be easy, but we fight for each other until the end. Our goal is to secure a ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup,” she expressed.