“It’s Good To Be Home”: Thembi Kgatlana Returns To Banyana Banyana With A Point To Prove

There’s a spark in Thembi Kgatlana’s smile this week that unmistakable mix of relief, pride and hunger that comes from finally being back where she belongs: in the green and gold.

After sitting out the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Kgatlana has returned to the Banyana Banyana setup ahead of their second-leg clash against DR Congo in Soweto, and she’s beaming with optimism.

Clearing The Air

When news broke that the forward had withdrawn from WAFCON earlier this year, speculation ran wild. But Kgatlana has now set the record straight: her decision was personal, not political.

“I never had personal issues with anyone,” she explained. “It was something private between me and my family. The federation and my club supported me fully, and I’m grateful for that.”

Her openness has been met with warmth from fans online, with one X (formerly Twitter) user posting, “Welcome back, Thembi. We missed that fire!”

Building Confidence At Home

South Africa held DR Congo to a 1–1 draw in the away leg last week. Now, with home advantage on their side and key overseas players back in camp, Kgatlana believes Banyana can finish the job in Soweto.

“We got a very important away goal,” she said. “Now we’re playing at home, we’ve planned well, and we’re confident. We know their strengths and weaknesses this time, it’s about executing and making our fans proud.”

A Symbol Of Resilience

For Banyana, Kgatlana’s return brings not just experience but renewed energy. The striker’s comeback comes at a crucial moment as South Africa continues its push to qualify for major tournaments and cement its dominance in African women’s football.

Her story one of honesty, maturity and perseverance resonates with fans who see her as both a role model and a fighter. Tonight’s match at FNB Stadium won’t just be another game for her; it’ll be a homecoming written in hard work and heart.

{Source:SABC Sport}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com