Sasol Banyana Banyana face one of their biggest tests tonight when they take on continental rivals Nigeria in a crucial FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying play-off at the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 in Morocco.
With their FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 dream on the line, the message from the South African camp is clear: the previous result is behind them and another opportunity lies ahead.
Head coach, Dr Desiree Ellis believes the disappointment of missing out on an automatic qualification will provide added motivation, as her players prepare to face one of the giants of African women’s football.
“It’s not the position we wanted to be in, but we have another opportunity. Losing the previous game will probably drive us to get a positive result. It’s not going to be easy – we are playing against one of the giants of African football, but this is another opportunity for us to qualify for the World Cup. It’s a big game for us. The players know what is at stake and we have to execute our plans and make sure we are victorious at the end of the day.”
Captain Refiloe Jane echoed her coach’s determination, stressing that the team remains focused on making the most of the opportunity in front of them.
“It’s an important and special match for the team. We came here wanting to qualify for the World Cup and although we missed the first opportunity, we have another chance to do so. We have to keep our heads up. Our focus is now on the next match and making sure we take this opportunity.”
Tonight’s encounter embodies the spirit of Sasol’s #NtswembuNamanje campaign, which is a celebration of the confidence, excellence, resilience and pride that have come to define Sasol Banyana Banyana. It is about believing when the stakes are high, standing together when the challenge becomes greater and seizing the opportunity when it presents itself.
Attending the team’s final training session of the tournament, Dean Somerset, Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorships, spoke to the spirit and determination that characterised the team’s journey.
“Through #NtswembuNamanje, we celebrate the strength, resilience and determination that define this team and remind them that an entire nation stands proudly behind them as they represent our country on the continental stage.”
The rivalry could hardly be bigger. Sasol Banyana Banyana made history by lifting their maiden WAFCON title in Morocco in 2022, while Nigeria reclaimed the continental crown by winning the 2024 WAFCON edition, staged in 2025 and entered the current tournament as defending champions.
For nearly two decades, Sasol has stood alongside Banyana Banyana through the milestones, breakthroughs and challenging moments. Tonight is another moment when that support matters most.
To all Sasol employees: let’s stand behind our team. Share your messages of support and rally behind Sasol Banyana Banyana as they fight to keep their World Cup dream alive. Catch all the action live on SABC 3 tonight at 22:00 and show your support for Sasol Banyana Banyana.
