Banyana Banyana beat Nigeria to stay in FIFA World Cup race

by Chumasande Matiwane

Banyana Banyana have kept their hopes of reaching the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup alive after producing a determined 2–1 victory over fierce African rivals Nigeria in a crucial play-off in Casablanca, Morocco, on the night of 13 August 2026.

Also see: Banyana Banyana start COSAFA Cup with confident win over Malawi

Banyana Banyana’s efforts may take them to World Cup

The victory keeps South Africa’s dream of reaching the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil firmly alive, after the former African champions were unable to secure one of the automatic World Cup qualification places by reaching the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-finals.

Banyana Banyana entered the match under enormous pressure after their 2–1 quarter-final defeat to hosts Morocco at the 2026 WAFCON had ended their hopes of automatic qualification.

The loss left the team needing to win their winner-takes-all encounter with Nigeria to remain in contention for the World Cup.

Thembi Kgatlana broke the deadlock in the second half, giving South Africa the breakthrough they desperately needed. Captain Refiloe Jane then doubled the advantage, putting Banyana in a commanding position as the match entered its closing stages.

Also see: Gabriela Salgado’s return gives Banyana Banyana a lift

Nigeria put up a fight

Nigeria refused to surrender, with Christy Ucheibe pulling a goal back from the penalty spot in stoppage time, creating a tense finish. However, our Banyana girls held firm to secure a memorable 2–1 win.

The result represents a major setback for Nigeria, who had qualified for every previous FIFA Women’s World Cup since the tournament began in 1991. Their defeat means the Super Falcons will miss the 2027 tournament for the first time in their history.

For Banyana, however, the journey continues.

Also see: Banyana Banyana qualify for WAFCON quarterfinals after dramatic group stage finish

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