Banyana Banyana are facing one of their toughest challenges yet as they prepare to take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first leg of the final round of the 2026 FIFA Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers on Wednesday afternoon. With several key players missing and head coach Desiree Ellis absent, South Africa’s reigning queens of African football will need to dig deep to stay on course for qualification.
Desiree Ellis’s Absence Raises Concern
The biggest talking point ahead of the Banyana Banyana vs DR Congo clash is the absence of coach Desiree Ellis, who is yet to agree on a new deal with the South African Football Association (SAFA). Ellis, whose contract expired after the Olympic Games, has been working on a month-to-month basis while negotiations continue.
Her absence comes at a critical time when the national team needs stability and leadership. The qualifiers not only determine who qualifies for WAFCON 2026, but also serve as a pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil with the top four teams at WAFCON securing automatic qualification. Without Ellis on the sidelines, Banyana face the daunting task of maintaining tactical structure and confidence.
Thinasonke Mbuli Steps Into the Spotlight
Assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli has stepped in to lead the team in Ellis’s absence. A respected figure in the national setup, Mbuli has worked alongside Ellis for several years and is highly regarded for her tactical understanding and calm leadership.
She currently manages the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in the Hollywoodbets Super League, where she has developed a strong record of success. Mbuli has guided local sides to victory in the COSAFA Cup and the CAF Women’s Champions League, and is widely tipped as a potential future head coach for Banyana.
This crucial clash against the DR Congo women’s team presents her with the perfect opportunity to showcase her leadership under pressure.
Key Players Missing From the Squad
Banyana’s preparations have been further disrupted by the unavailability of four overseas-based stars all currently playing club football in Mexico. Their absence leaves noticeable gaps in both experience and attacking depth.
Players unavailable for selection
- Amogelang Motau – midfielder, key in transition play
- Thembi Kgatlana – star forward and top scorer
- Sinoxolo Cesane – dynamic attacking midfielder
- Hildah Magaia – prolific winger and goal threat
These players have been pivotal to Banyana’s recent success, particularly Kgatlana and Magaia, who have delivered match-winning performances in previous tournaments. Their absence will force Mbuli to rely heavily on locally based players such as Refiloe Jane, Linda Motlhalo, and Andile Dlamini to provide leadership and consistency.
Rebuilding After a Disappointing Campaign
Banyana’s last WAFCON appearance ended on a sour note as they surrendered their continental title and finished fourth. The poor campaign sparked conversations about the team’s future direction, with reports of dressing room tension and leadership uncertainty.
Retired striker Jermaine Seoposenwe publicly criticised Ellis after the tournament, claiming the coach failed to support players during a standoff with SAFA comments that intensified speculation about internal divisions.
The current situation, with several absentees and a coach in limbo, has made it clear that a new chapter may be unfolding for Banyana Banyana.
Resilience Will Define Their Journey
Despite the turbulence, Banyana have always been a team that thrives under adversity. Their history of bouncing back from setbacks including winning WAFCON 2022 and reaching consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cups shows their strength and unity.
With Thinasonke Mbuli at the helm and the second leg to come at home, Banyana have a chance to restore belief and prove that their depth and spirit remain their greatest assets. A strong result in Kinshasa will be vital to keep their WAFCON 2026 and World Cup 2027 dreams alive.
This fixture is more than a qualifier it’s a defining moment for the next generation of South African women’s football.
Related article: Banyana Banyana Begin WAFCON Title Defence with 2-0 Win Over Ghana
