Banyana Banyana will begin their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Tanzania in Morocco on Monday.
The Group B fixture is scheduled to kick off at 19:00.
South Africa will enter the match as favourites as they begin their latest push for continental success.
Banyana narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the previous tournament and will be determined to make a stronger start this time.
The team has become one of Africa’s regular contenders over the past decade and boasts extensive experience at major international tournaments.
South Africa carry experience
Several players in the Banyana squad have competed in major leagues abroad and represented South Africa at FIFA Women’s World Cups.
That experience could prove important against a Tanzania side expected to bring physicality and defensive discipline.
The East Africans secured their place at the tournament through a strong qualifying campaign.
They have also improved steadily in recent years and will be looking to cause an early upset against one of the continent’s established teams.
Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis said her players understand the challenge Tanzania will present.
“We’ve played them a couple of times and the games have always been tight,” Ellis said.
“They can play, but they also bring physicality.”
Ellis expects physical contest
Ellis said South Africa had faced several physical opponents over the past year and was prepared for a similar test.
Banyana’s attacking options could play a decisive role in the opening fixture.
The squad includes Thembi Kgatlana, Hildah Magaia and Amogelang Motau, who can create chances and put pressure on Tanzania’s defence.
Ellis said the team’s first priority would be preventing Tanzania from scoring.
“The first point is we obviously need to keep a clean sheet because we are a team that’s going to create opportunities to score,” she said.
Control key to opening win
Ellis wants Banyana to remain composed and control the match regardless of Tanzania’s approach.
She said South Africa must manage the game and trust its ability to create scoring opportunities.
A victory would give Banyana an important early advantage in Group B and build confidence for the rest of the tournament.
For South Africa, the opening match represents the first step in their bid to return to the top of African women’s football.