Banyana Banyana out to tame Senegal in WAFCON quarter-final

BANYANA Banyana head into their CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-final against Senegal with momentum and a semi-final spot within reach, following a resounding 4-0 victory over Mali in their final Group C match.

South Africa topped the group with seven points — beginning their campaign with a 2-0 win over Ghana, followed by a frustrating 1-1 draw against Tanzania. 

They closed off the group phase in style, dismantling Mali to book a last-eight tie against a rugged and physical Senegal outfit that finished second in Group B.

With Thembi Kgatlana unavailable for the tournament, much of the attacking burden has fallen on the shoulders of Jermaine Seoposenwe, who responded with a commanding performance and a goal in the Mali clash. 

Her work rate and intelligent movement in the final third remain vital to South Africa’s hopes of progressing.

Midfield maestro Amogelang Motau has also grown into the tournament, controlling the tempo of games and acting as the link between defence and attack. Motau’s range of passing and spatial awareness could be key in breaking down Senegal’s deep defensive lines.

Senegal, known for their physicality and pace on the counter, will pose a serious threat. Hapsatou Diallo has been a standout figure for the West Africans, capable of driving forward with power and testing defenders with her pace. 

South Africa’s central defensive duo of Bambanani Mbane and Tiisetso Makhubela will need to be alert and disciplined throughout.

Defensively, Banyana have conceded just once in the tournament and will be buoyed by the likely return of Andile Dlamini in goal. The experienced shot-stopper is expected to reclaim the gloves after Kaylin Swart’s uncertain showing against Tanzania earlier in the group stage.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. Not only is a place in the semi-finals up for grabs, but the winner will also secure qualification to the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup. 

The pressure is immense, but so is the opportunity for this generation of South African players to carve out their legacy.

With continental giants like Nigeria and Morocco still in the picture, South Africa’s path to a potential second WAFCON title won’t be easy. 

But their ability to respond under pressure, as seen in the final group game, shows they are finding form at the right time.

Senegal’s journey to the quarter-finals included a win over Algeria and a draw with hosts Morocco, underlining their ability to compete against established sides. Their compact structure and direct approach make them a dangerous knockout opponent.

The match will test South Africa’s discipline, tactical maturity and ability to seize chances in front of goal. Their strength in midfield and experienced backline offer hope, but clinical finishing will be decisive.

As the knockout rounds begin, Banyana Banyana know that the margin for error is thin. But with momentum on their side and a semi-final spot at stake, they’ll look to rise to the challenge and edge one step closer to continental glory.