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Refiloe Jane, Bambanani Mbane and Fikile Magama of Banyana Banyana 16-9GOAL GFX
Celine Abrahams

Flair meets firepower: Banyana Banyana set for fierce Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final against hungry Senegal side

Banyana Banyana are three wins from defending their WAFCON title, but first face a tough quarter-final vs Senegal on Saturday, 19 July in Oujda.

Banyana Banyana are three wins away from defending their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown, but first, they face a tricky quarter-final against a fast-rising Senegalese side on Saturday, 19 July at Stade Municipal d’Oujda. Having topped Group C, South Africa have quietly established themselves as tournament favourites once again. 

But knockout football brings new pressure and coach Desiree Ellis has stressed the importance of focus, freshness and fearlessness. With standout performances from veterans like Bambanani Mbane and midfield general Refiloe Jane, and the attacking spark of players like Linda Motlhalo, Jermaine Seoposenwe and Hildah Magaia still in reserve, Banyana look to be peaking at the right time. Yet Senegal, powered by the in-form Nguenar Ndiaye, are no pushovers.

Here, GOAL builds up to the clash of champions versus challengers and only one will book a semi-final place.

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  • Linda Motlhalo and Stumai Athuman, Banyana Banyana vs Twiga StarsBackpage

    Opening the tournament with spirit and structure

    Since lifting their maiden WAFCON title in 2022, Banyana Banyana have maintained an undefeated streak, topped Group C and been praised for their blend of disciplined structure and infectious spirit. 

    Coach Desiree Ellis, named Best Coach of the Group Stage by CAF, has used squad rotation throughout the tournament to manage fitness and maintain balance. The 4‑0 demolition of Mali didn’t just secure top spot, it sent a message that South Africa remain the team to beat.

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  • Bambanani Mbane of South AfricaBackpagepix

    Leadership and form in defence

    Veteran wing-back Lebohang Ramalepe has been outstanding, shifting into a more attacking role and scoring in the Mali rout. 

    Alongside stalwart defenders like Bambanani Mbane, a consistent presence in the Best XI, and Fikile Magama, the backline strikes a potent balance between solidity and forward thrust.

  • Refiloe Jane of Banyana BanyanaBackpagepix

    Midfield orchestration and creative flair

    The engine room, led by captain Refiloe Jane, has been rock-solid and creative, with Jane’s trademark calm distribution and set-piece prowess standing out. 

    Alongside her, Linda Motlhalo has added attacking flair, linking well with the forwards and providing crucial passes in the final third. Their understanding in midfield has helped South Africa maintain control and fluidity in every match so far.

  • Nguenar Ndiaye of SenegalBackpagepix

    Senegal’s threat: magic moments and Ndiaye

    Senegal arrives with momentum. Striker Nguenar Ndiaye, joint top scorer in the tournament, has notched four goals already and will be a focal point. The powerful forward has been clinical in front of goal, combining physicality with intelligent movement to punish defences. 

    Her presence will undoubtedly be a major concern for South Africa’s backline, who will need to stay alert and disciplined to contain her threat. With Senegal showing growing confidence and attacking intent, Ndiaye is expected to play a central role in their game plan as they look to upset the defending champions.

  • Desiree Ellis, Refiloe Jane, Hildah Magaia & Bongeka Gamede of Banyana Banyana 16-9GOAL GFX

    Confidence and cohesion building toward the big game

    The mood within the Banyana camp ahead of the quarter-final is one of quiet confidence tempered with healthy caution. Coach Desiree Ellis has carefully managed the squad’s fitness and morale through a well-planned rotation strategy, ensuring that key players remain fresh and focused. 

    This approach paid clear dividends in their commanding win over Mali, where several rotated players stepped up to deliver crucial moments, showcasing the squad’s depth and versatility. While the team is confident in their abilities and preparation, there is a collective understanding that the stakes are higher now and any lapse in concentration could be costly. The blend of growing cohesion on the pitch and tactical flexibility gives Banyana a strong foundation as they prepare to face a formidable Senegalese side eager to make their mark.


  • Hildah Magaia and Banyana Banyana team matesBackpage

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