Thembi Kgatlana crowns comeback with winner as Banyana Banyana seal WAFCON qualification

South Africa 1 (0) Kgatlana 92’

DR Congo 0

On her much-anticipated return to the national team, Thembi Kgatlana delivered the decisive moment as Banyana Banyana booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a dramatic 1-0 victory over DR Congo at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday night.

Kgatlana, making her first appearance since missing the last WAFCON through injury, struck in stoppage time to seal a 2-1 aggregate win and ensure South Africa’s qualification for next year’s finals in Morocco. The Mexico-based forward showed her trademark sharpness and composure in front of goal, marking her comeback with a strike that sparked wild celebrations among players and supporters alike.

From the onset, Desiree Ellis’ side dominated possession and dictated the rhythm, creating a flurry of scoring chances in the first half. The visitors, however, remained disciplined and dangerous on the break, forcing goalkeeper Andile Dlamini into two sharp saves to keep Banyana level.

The hosts thought they had found the breakthrough midway through the first half when Kgatlana finished neatly from close range, but the goal was controversially ruled out for offside — a decision that left Ellis visibly frustrated on the touchline.

Despite their relentless pressure, Banyana couldn’t breach Congo’s resilient backline before the interval and went into the break with the scoreline goalless. The result still favoured the home side, who held the advantage thanks to their crucial away goal from last week’s 1-1 draw in Brazzaville.

As the clock ticked into injury time, it seemed the match was headed for a tense finish until Kgatlana stepped up, pouncing on a loose ball inside the box to fire home the winner.

Her late heroics not only secured victory on the night but also reaffirmed Banyana’s place among the continent’s elite as they prepare to defend their title in Morocco next March.