Banyana Banyana claimed a historic win over Japan during their match set in Osaka. South Africa’s senior women’s national soccer team stunned the Asian country with a hard-fought 1-0 victory on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, proving why they remain one of Africa’s most respected sides ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
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Banyana make history against Japan
According to the South African Football Association (SAFA), the result marked a dramatic turnaround from the teams’ previous meeting on Saturday, when Japan secured a convincing 5-0 victory. Rather than dwelling on that loss, head coach Desiree Ellis and her technical team went back to work, making adjustments and focusing on lessons learned from the opening encounter.
Midfielder Linda Motlhalo found the breakthrough in the ninth minute, scoring what proved to be the decisive goal.
It ends in victory for Sasol Banyana Banyana in Osaka, a Linda Motlhalo goal in the first half the decider. First win for South Africa over Japan pic.twitter.com/WcbBAwK4a1
— Sasol Banyana Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) June 9, 2026
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South Africans applaud Banyana Banyana’s victory
Many social media users shared how proud they were to see the team shine abroad.
“Very great improvement from the last game. We are African Champions, let’s carry on with that mentality,” wrote @DassanachWave.
A positive @salmanea commented, “This team has improved and is ready to compete with any team in the world.”
@ZakheleShaban12 applauded the goalkeeper, Kaylin Swart, writing, “Congratulations to the ladies. Great teamwork and a special shout-out to Kaylin ‘Flying’ Swart. She had a phenomenal day in the office today.”
Eyes now on Morocco
With the Japan tour complete, Banyana Banyana are expected to return to South Africa on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, before regrouping next month.
Their attention now shifts to Morocco, where the 2026 WAFCON will take place from 25 July to 17 August.
SAFA notes that the tournament carries extra significance as it also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The top four teams will secure places at the global showpiece.
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