Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana‘s dream of competing at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil is still alive, with the team set to play crucial play-off matches in Morocco from 28 November to 5 December 2026.
After missing out on automatic qualification at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Sasol Banyana Banyana have another chance to secure their place on football’s biggest stage through the inter-confederation play-offs.
Under the leadership of head coach, Dr Desiree Ellis, the team will compete at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco, with three important fixtures ahead:
| Date | Opponent | Kick-off (SA time) |
| 28 November 2026 | Chinese Taipei | 16:00 |
| 1 December 2026 | Ecuador | 21:00 |
| 5 December 2026 | Uzbekistan | 19:00 |
The top two teams from the preliminary phase will advance to the final play-off round in February 2027, moving one step closer to a World Cup spot.
For Sasol Banyana Banyana, this is another opportunity to show the resilience, courage and determination that have defined their journey. This fighting spirit is at the heart of #NtswembuNamanje, a reminder that the spirit that made champions has never left.
For almost two decades, Sasol has supported the growth of women’s football, creating opportunities for female athletes to thrive and inspiring young girls to believe in their potential. This commitment goes beyond results on the pitch. It is about building a lasting legacy for women’s football in South Africa.
“We’ve seen what Banyana Banyana are capable of, and we know they have the fighting spirit to rise to this challenge. At Sasol, we’ve always believed in their potential and that belief doesn’t change when things get tough. We’re proud of how far they’ve come, and we’ll be cheering them on every step of the way,” said Nozipho Mlambo, Senior Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorship.
“I’d love to see all Sasol employees getting behind the team. Let’s wear our green and gold every Friday, share our messages of support on the Sasol in Sport social media platforms and show Banyana Banyana that we’re right behind them. They have a big challenge ahead, and our support can make a difference.”
As Sasol Banyana Banyana head into this next chapter of their qualification journey, every match is more than an opportunity to qualify. It is another chance to inspire the next generation and strengthen the legacy of women’s football in South Africa.
SAFA confirmed the 23-player squad on 10 November 2026, with head coach Dr Desiree Ellis aiming to secure at least two victories to strengthen South Africa’s chances of progressing to the next stage.
Meet the squad
| Player | Position | |
| 1 | Andile Dlamini | Goalkeeper |
| 2 | Kaylin Swart | Goalkeeper |
| 3 | Katlego Moletsane | Goalkeeper |
| 4 | Karabo Dhlamini | Defender |
| 5 | Fikile Magama | Defender |
| 6 | Lebohang Ramalepe | Defender |
| 7 | Antonia Maponya | Defender |
| 8 | Bambanani Mbane | Defender |
| 9 | Lonathemba Mhlongo | Defender |
| 10 | Khutso Pila | Defender |
| 11 | Bongeka Gamede | Midfielder |
| 12 | Linda Motlhalo | Midfielder |
| 13 | Refiloe Jane | Midfielder |
| 14 | Amogelang Motau | Midfielder |
| 15 | Noxolo Cesane | Midfielder |
| 16 | Sibulele Holweni | Midfielder |
| 17 | Nonhlanhla Mthandi | Midfielder |
| 18 | Thembi Kgatlana | Forward |
| 19 | Wendy Shongwe | Forward |
| 20 | Ronnel Donnelly | Forward |
| 21 | Hildah Magaia | Forward |
| 22 | Gabriela Moodaly-Salgado | Forward |
| 23 | Nthabiseng Majiya | Forward |
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