South Africa's Thembi Kgatlana will be key for Banyana Banyana as they aim to keep their WAFCON 2026 qualification hopes on track against Ivory Coast. Photo: Backpagepix
Banyana Banyana return to WAFCON action on Friday knowing the importance of collecting points when they face Ivory Coast in their second Group B encounter in Morocco (kikc-off 7pm).
South Africa head into the fixture under pressure after suffering a shock 2-1 defeat to Tanzania in their opening match, a result that has left their qualification hopes requiring an immediate response. Banyana currently sit third in Group B, ahead of Burkina Faso, who occupy bottom spot after their 4-1 defeat to Ivory Coast on matchday one.
However, the standings remain finely poised, with every point carrying significant importance in the race for progression. For Desiree Ellis’ side, the focus will be on correcting the areas that proved costly in their opening encounter.
The biggest concern will be their efficiency in front of goal. Banyana created enough opportunities against Tanzania but lacked the composure needed to punish their opponents.
