THE FUSE

Banyana face Malawi in their first Group A match, with the tournament serving as key preparation ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Polokwane, South Africa (18 February 2026) – Polokwane is read,y and so are Banyana Banyana!

South Africa’s senior women’s national team have wrapped up their preparations ahead of today’s (18 February) COSAFA Women’s Championship opener against Malawi, set for a 15h00 kick-off at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. But while the regional bragging rights are important, there’s an even bigger prize in sight.

With the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicking off in Morocco next month, both South Africa and Malawi are using this tournament as a crucial tune-up.

For coach Dr Desiree Ellis, the mission is to build momentum without losing sight of the immediate task at hand.

“For us the bigger picture is the WAFCON, and we are using this tournament for that similarly to them (Malawi), this is preparation for the WAFCON. What we want to see is that connection, that synergy and obviously you want to win your first game. But it’s also about putting up a good performance, we’re hoping that the girls can put their best foot forward tomorrow.”

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Banyana are placed in Group A alongside Malawi, Lesotho and Angola in a competition that features 11 nations. Group B includes Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Eswatini and Namibia, while Mozambique and Madagascar make up Group C.

Only the three group winners and the best runner-up will advance to the semi-finals on 27 February at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, with the final scheduled for 1 March.

Reigning champions Zambia will be looking to defend their crown. However for Banyana, this campaign is about sharpening their edge, building chemistry and setting the tone before the continental spotlight shifts to Morocco.

Sources: South African Football Association

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