There is no easing into this tournament for Banyana Banyana. If captain Lebogang Ramalepe has her way, South Africa’s 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign will begin at full throttle from the very first whistle.
Banyana open their WAFCON journey against Tanzania on 17 March in Morocco, and Ramalepe has made it clear that anything less than three points would feel like a missed opportunity. For a side carrying both continental ambition and World Cup pressure, the message from the captain is simple. Start strong or risk chasing the tournament.
Why the first game matters so much
Tournament football has a way of punishing slow starts, and Ramalepe knows it. Speaking ahead of the opener, she stressed that an opening win is about more than just points. It is about confidence, belief and control of the group narrative.
According to the experienced defender, three points in the first match would place Banyana in a healthy position early on and allow them to build momentum instead of playing catch up. Tanzania may not arrive as favourites, but Ramalepe is under no illusions. She expects a physical, competitive contest that will demand commitment until the final minute.
For South African fans, this mindset feels familiar. Banyana’s best tournaments in recent years have been built on discipline, intensity and early statements of intent rather than flashy promises.
World Cup qualification adds extra weight
This WAFCON is not just about continental pride. It also doubles as a qualification pathway to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, raising the stakes considerably.
Ramalepe has openly acknowledged that the squad is returning from a break and must quickly shift back into high intensity continental mode. There is little room for rust or hesitation when a ticket to Brazil is on the line.
She has framed the challenge as a collective responsibility. Players digging deep, leaning on experience and staying mentally sharp across the group stages. It is a reminder that this Banyana generation understands the bigger picture and the narrow margins that define international football.
Group B offers no easy nights
South Africa’s Group B assignment is anything but straightforward. Alongside Tanzania, Banyana will face Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso, sides known for their physical presence and direct style.
Ramalepe pointed out that Ivory Coast’s return to the tournament brings an element of unpredictability. Teams with less recent WAFCON experience often arrive with hunger and nothing to lose. Burkina Faso, meanwhile, have built a reputation for making matches uncomfortable through sheer work rate.
Her approach is measured rather than dismissive. One game at a time, no underestimating opponents, and clear internal goals. For a South African audience used to seeing Banyana grow from underdogs into continental contenders, this humility reflects lessons learned the hard way.
Fans already backing the mindset
On social media, many local supporters have echoed Ramalepe’s call for a fast start. Fans have highlighted how early wins in past tournaments helped Banyana grow into belief and silence doubters, while slow beginnings often made the road unnecessarily difficult.
There is also appreciation for the captain’s honesty. South Africans tend to respond well to straight talking leaders, and Ramalepe’s words feel grounded rather than dramatic. No grand promises, just clarity on what the team expects from itself.
As the countdown to kick off continues, one thing is clear. For Banyana Banyana, this is not just another group game. It is a statement opportunity. And if their captain has her way, it will be taken with both hands.
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Source: SABC Sport
Featured Image Source: Banyana Banyana on X
