South Africa is set to face Senegal in the quarter-final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday, July 19, at the Stade Municipal in d’Oujda, Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 South African time[2][6]. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport TV and SABC[2].
Reigning champions South Africa, known as Banyana Banyana, come into the match as Group C winners, having started their campaign with a 2-0 win over Ghana, a 1-1 draw against Tanzania, and a dominant 4-0 victory over Mali. They remain unbeaten in the tournament, conceding just one goal in three matches and are carrying a 10-match unbeaten streak[1][2]. Senegal, on the other hand, progressed as one of the best third-placed teams after defeating DR Congo 4-0, before narrow losses to Zambia (2-3) and Morocco (0-1)[2][5].
Historically, South Africa has had the upper hand. The teams met twice in June 2024: the first ended in a 1-1 draw, and the second saw South Africa win 2-0, highlighting their recent dominance[2]. However, Senegal has shown significant improvement, and their physical, direct, and pacy style—led by forwards such as Mama Diop, Nguenar Ndiaye, and Sadigatou Diallo—could pose problems for the South Africans[1]. Senegal is aiming to reach the semi-finals for the first time by overcoming the defending champions, marking a historic milestone if they succeed[5].
Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis emphasized the team’s need to be on top of their game, noting the importance of maintaining a clean sheet in this critical knockout match[2]. Both teams have been efficient in front of goal, each boasting a 20% shot conversion rate after the group stage[5]. South Africa has scored seven times and conceded once in the tournament, while Senegal has netted six and let in three goals[5].
If South Africa advances, a challenging semi-final clash with nine-time champions Nigeria could await. The predicted starting lineup for South Africa includes Dlamini; Dhlamini, Makhubela, Mbane, Magama; Jane, Motau, Motlhalo; Ramalepe, Magaia, and Seoposenwe[2].
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