Ghana and South Africa have secured places in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 inter-confederation play-offs after both nations won their respective WAFCON play-off matches on Tuesday.
South Africa defeated Nigeria 2-1 in a closely contested encounter, with Thembi Kgatlana opening the scoring in the 56th minute before Refiloe Jane doubled Banyana Banyana’s advantage 20 minutes later.
Nigeria pulled one back through Christy Ucheibe, who converted from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time, but South Africa held on to secure victory and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Ghana Complete Comeback Against Côte d’Ivoire
Ghana also booked their place in the inter-confederation play-offs after coming from behind to defeat Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 in Casablanca.
Côte d’Ivoire took an early lead through Ines Konan, who converted from the penalty spot, but Ghana responded strongly after the break.
Princess Marfo levelled the contest in the 59th minute before Josephine Bonsu completed Ghana’s comeback by converting a 72nd-minute penalty.
World Cup Dreams Remain Alive
Both Ghana and South Africa missed out on automatic qualification after failing to reach the WAFCON semi-finals, but their play-off victories have given them another route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Ghana are seeking a return to the global showpiece for the first time since 2007, while South Africa are hoping to secure another appearance on the world stage.
The FIFA inter-confederation play-offs will determine the remaining teams that qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Conclusion
With their WAFCON campaigns still alive through the play-off route, Ghana and South Africa now have another opportunity to secure their places at Brazil 2027.
Both nations will be hoping to make the most of the opportunity and join Africa’s automatically qualified representatives at the global tournament.
