'The bigger picture here is about qualifying for the world cup' — Andile Dlamini on Banyana Banyana WAFCON draw

The draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026 has mapped out Banyana Banyana’s route on the continental stage — but from inside the camp, the message is clear: the real target lies beyond the group stage.

South Africa were placed in Group B alongside Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Tanzania following the draw at the King Mohammed VI Football Complex, a group that promises intensity, physical battles and tactical discipline from the first matchday.

From the perspective of Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, the draw represents the start of a demanding journey that requires belief, unity and relentless work.

Reflecting on the challenge that awaits, Dlamini did not shy away from the difficulty of the group.

“It’s a very tough group, a difficult group and it’s not going to be easy but we have to just believe in ourselves extremely hard.”

With the tournament expanding to 16 teams and running from 17 March to 3 April 2026, WAFCON now carries added weight as the African qualification pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

For Dlamini, that broader objective defines how the team views the draw.

“As a team collectively and individually we have to work towards the goal of helping each other achieve greatness as a country. We have to make sure that we work extremely hard to win our group and advance because it's not about the group, the bigger picture here is about qualifying for the world cup.”

Despite South Africa’s experience at the top level, squad selection remains fiercely competitive, and Dlamini was clear about the personal responsibility that comes with wearing the green and gold.

“Firstly, I still need to work hard to be in the team and have my name mentioned as one of the names to represent South Africa.”

The expanded format, she believes, brings both opportunity and expectation for African nations.

“Secondly, the aim here is to qualify for the world cup and obviously there’s 16 teams now and that means there’s more countries given an opportunity to represent their countries at the highest level in Africa and at the world cup.”

For players across the continent, the World Cup remains the ultimate destination, a dream that shapes preparation and mentality.

“That's where every girl’s dream is, you have to have the mentality of qualifying, that’s the only difference now, because you want to represent your continent, your country, your name, your fans and everything else that comes with it.”

Dlamini also highlighted the importance of trust in the technical leadership, particularly in high-pressure tournaments where preparation and structure are crucial.

“The approach of the game and everything else lies with the coach and not with the players, how we approach it is that we take everything from the coach, the technical team and support staff.”

Beyond qualification, Dlamini believes the World Cup experience itself is a powerful tool for player development and career progression.

“The world cup gives you an opportunity to grow because you’re going to meet the highest level of competitors and you become one of them and that makes you grow whether you like it or not and that’s why it’s very important that we qualify.”

She also pointed to the wider impact qualification can have, especially for young players dreaming of playing abroad.

“It creates more opportunities and it also gives you another step to better your career, (it is also) an opportunity for that young girl who wants to play overseas to be seen.”

As pressure builds ahead of Morocco, Dlamini insists that expectation should not distract from the mission.

“It’s very important that we qualify, whether there is pressure or no pressure.”

WAFCON 2026 GROUPS:

Group A: Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, Kenya

Group B: South Africa, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Tanzania

Group C: Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi

Group D: Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, Cape Verde