Refiloe Jane Urges Focus as Banyana Banyana Eye WAFCON Qualification

Home Advantage And High Stakes

Banyana Banyana captain Refiloe Jane has one clear message for her teammates: stay focused, stay calm, and finish the job. South Africa’s women’s national team heads into Tuesday’s second-leg clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at Dobsonville Stadium with a slim but valuable away-goal advantage after last week’s 1–1 draw in Kinshasa.

“We didn’t lose and managed to get that crucial away goal,” said Jane. “That puts us in a better position, but in football, anything can happen. We have to stay focused and go for the win there’s no other way.”

For the reigning African champions, qualification for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) isn’t just another box to tick it’s a statement of intent ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

The Power Of Home Support

Back in familiar territory, Banyana are counting on the energy of Soweto’s football faithful to help lift them over the line. “We’re hoping to use our home-ground advantage,” said Jane. “If supporters come out in numbers, it will boost our morale. We’re all chasing the same goal to qualify for WAFCON.”

Dobsonville Stadium has often been kind to Banyana, serving as the backdrop to some of their biggest victories. With tickets affordable and the stakes high, fans are expected to fill the stands in support of the champions who’ve inspired a new generation of South African girls to dream big.

Reinforcements Return

The return of several key overseas-based players adds an extra spark to the squad. Sinoxolo Cesane, Hilda Magaia, Amogelang Motau, and star forward Thembi Kgatlana all of whom missed the first leg are back in camp.

Jane, who has plied her trade in Italy with AC Milan and Sassuolo, expressed excitement about their return. “We know the quality they bring,” she said. “We’re stronger together, and having them back gives us that extra edge.”

Respect For The Opposition

Still, Jane is under no illusions about the challenge the DRC presents. “They’re physical, fast, and mentally strong,” she noted. “We can’t underestimate them. This is do-or-die either we win it or we go home.”

The format adds pressure too: if the aggregate score ends level, the away-goals rule applies, and if still tied, a penalty shootout will decide the outcome. No extra time, no second chances.

A Step Toward A Bigger Dream

Beyond the immediate goal of WAFCON qualification lies a deeper motivation the road to the Brazil 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. “We know what it took to get there last time,” Jane reflected. “We’ve overcome obstacles before, and we’re ready to do it again.”

South Africa’s women have built a legacy of resilience, and Tuesday’s clash is more than just a football match it’s another test of heart, focus, and belief.

As fans gear up to paint Soweto green and gold, one thing is certain: Banyana Banyana are ready to fight for their place among Africa’s best once again.

{Source:IOL}

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