Banyana Banyana have been knocked out of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 after a 1–2 defeat to tournament hosts Morocco in a quarter-final match played at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Saturday night.
The disappointing loss also means the team have failed to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will take place in Brazil.
Morocco were the first to register a goal in the 31st minute when Sakina Ouzraoui scored a stunning goal to put the hosts in front.
The hosts were awarded a penalty in the 51st minute after Banyana defender Noxolo Cesane brought down Ghizlane Chebbak. Hanane Ait El Haj converted from the penalty spot to make it 2–0 for the North Africans.
Banyana pressurised the hosts later in the game but were left to rue missed golden opportunities and wayward passes.
Thembi Kgatlana, however, managed to put the ball into the back of the net in the 67th minute following a brilliant individual display. Despite a spirited effort to equalise, Morocco held on to progress to the next stage of the tournament and secure automatic qualification for next year’s World Cup in Brazil.
Meanwhile, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has urged Banyana to hold their heads up high following their elimination.
“Defeat is temporary, but our love for Banyana Banyana is permanent. Lessons were learned, and we shall return a better team. Hold your heads high, ladies,” said McKenzie in a post on the social media platform X.
