Banyana Banyana have officially begun their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers after assembling for camp on Sunday and travelling to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
The reigning African champions held their first training session on Monday, 20 October, as they settled into their base and began fine-tuning for the crucial first-leg encounter against DR Congo. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, 22 October 2025, at Pentecost Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa, with kick-off at 19:00.
The squad is nearing full strength, with defender Bongeka Gamede having joined camp on Sunday and midfielder Linda Motlhalo arriving on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Mexico-based quartet of Thembi Kgatlana, Hilda Magaia, Sinoxolo Cesane, and Amogelang Motau will join the team in Johannesburg ahead of the return leg.
The staggered arrivals have been incorporated into the team’s preparation plan to maintain rhythm and cohesion across both fixtures. Head coach Desiree Ellis is expected to miss the game tonight.
The second leg will take place at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, where Banyana will look to seal qualification for WAFCON 2026 and continue their quest to defend their continental crown.
