WAFCON: South Africa survive Ghana test — can they outplay Mali and Tanzania?

Fresh off a dominant 2–0 victory over Ghana in their opening WAFCON 2025 Group C clash, South Africa’s Banyana Banyana have sent a strong message to the continent—they’re not just participating, they’re here to reclaim glory.

The defending champions looked sharp, composed, and confident, showcasing why they remain one of Africa’s most formidable women’s teams.

As the dust settles on their first triumph, attention now shifts to their next opponents—Tanzania and Mali. With the group stages heating up, the big question is: can Banyana Banyana maintain their momentum and finish top of the group? Here’s a deep dive into what lies ahead and whether the South Africans can go all the way.

The Challenge Ahead: Who’s Up Next?

After defeating Ghana 2–0 in their WAFCON opener, South Africa’s women’s team (Banyana Banyana) will face off midweek against Tanzania, followed by a final group game against Mali on July 14. These fixtures come amid ongoing CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations group play, where consistency is crucial to advance .

First Test: Tanzania

Tanzania enters this clash as one of Group C’s underdogs, featuring young talent but limited experience at this level. While they’ve posted strong regional performances, a recent analysis noted their lack of seasoned players compared to South Africa .

Pros for Banyana:

• Higher-quality squad with WAFCON-winning pedigree.

  
  
  

• Tactical flexibility under coach Desiree Ellis, who’s stressed the need to “guard against complacency” .

• Key players like Refiloe Jane, Lebogang Ramalepe, and Amogelang Motau expected to dominate midfield and defensive control .

Potential challenges:

• If Banyana underestimates Tanzania, they could face stiff resistance, particularly early on.

Final Group Game: Mali

Mali is emerging as a steadily improving force in African women’s football. While not underdogs like Tanzania, they’re not yet consistent contenders. Their matches are typically closely contested, and they’re expected to bring physicality and tactical discipline.

Why Banyana should prevail:

• More experience on the biggest stages.

• Deeper bench and ability to manage match tempo.

• Motivated to preserve top group position and morale.

  
  
  

Strategic Outlook & Winning Chances

Group Leadership Strategy
South Africa will aim to remain unbeaten, secure first place, and potentially finish with a clean record in front of strong-supporting fans and under CAF prize incentives .

Key Tactical Focus

• Strong buildup play through midfield, controlled possession, and defensive solidity.

• Use major threats from seasoned players like Hildah Magaia, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Linda Motlhalo.

• Control tempo, deploy subs early, and maintain a clean defensive record.

Predicted Outcomes
Experts (like Mandla Biyela) suggest Banyana could achieve consistent wins, especially following their strong opener against Ghana . A 2–0 prediction against Ghana underscores faith in the team’s depth and transition capability.

What to Watch

• Coach Ellis’s squad rotation: Talent testing is ongoing, so expect tactical adjustments against Tanzania .

• Defensive architecture: Keep an eye on Ramalepe, Cesane brothers, and Motau shaping midfield control.

• Goal-scoring expected: With top strikers playing, goal quantity and quality should remain high.

With today’s win over Ghana, Banyana Banyana have set a clear standard—they are favorites to top the group, with strong chances of sweeping upcoming matches. While Tanzania and Mali will give their best in pursuit of a surprise, South Africa’s depth, experience, and tactical management make them the team to beat. If they continue to execute with the same composure and focus, advancing to the knockout stage should be well within reach.