Sasol Banyana Banyana overcome Nigeria to secure World Cup play-off tournament

Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Nigeria in a fiercely contested encounter, booking their place in the FIFA Intercontinental Play-Off Tournament.

With the stakes high, Sasol Banyana Banyana delivered when it mattered most. The South Africans remained composed and disciplined against a formidable Nigerian side, showing the fighting spirit needed to secure the result and take another important step in their qualification journey.

The victory rewarded a team that continued to believe despite earlier setbacks in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations(WAFCON) tournament. It also reflected the spirit at the heart of Sasol’s #NtswembuNamanje ethos – pushing forward with courage and determination, even when the road is challenging.

Thembi Kgatlana applauded the team’s strong performance and composure in a crucial encounter. “I’m proud of how we performed as a team. Qualifying for the next round gives us confidence and momentum. We stepped up when it mattered and achieved the result we needed,” said Kgatlana.

Captain Refiloe Jane praised the team’s resilience and determination to keep pushing despite earlier setbacks. “We knew the journey wasn’t over and that we had to keep fighting until the end. I’m proud of the team for never giving up. Our focus now is to return home, work hard and prepare for the Intercontinental Play-Offs,” said Jane.

Goalkeeper Kaylin Swart described the result as a positive boost for the team as they look ahead to the next stage. “This win shows what we’re capable of and gives us the confidence we needed. Our focus now is on recovering, continuing to work hard and carrying this momentum into the next round,” said Swart.

For Sasol, a long-standing supporter of women’s football in South Africa, the victory highlighted the team’s resilience and fighting spirit.

“Congratulations to Sasol Banyana Banyana on this crucial victory over Nigeria. The performance embodies our #NtswembuNamanje mantra and we are immensely proud of the players and technical team for their commitment and perseverance in securing this result,” said Dean Somerset, Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorship at Sasol.

Somerset also thanked Sasol employees for their continued support of the team.

“A special thank you goes to all Sasol employees who have continued to stand behind Sasol Banyana Banyana. Your support and encouragement form an important part of this journey. As the team prepares for the next challenge, let us continue to show them that the entire Sasol family is behind them.”

With qualification for the FIFA Intercontinental Play-Off Tournament secured, Sasol Banyana Banyana will return home focused on recovery and preparation for their journey towards the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

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