A talented forward, Thembi Kgatlana, is well aware of the increased pressure facing South Africa as the defending champions in the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Having emerged victorious in the previous edition of the tournament in 2022, South Africa secured their first title by defeating Morocco 2-1 in the final.
Kgatlana, who currently plays for Tigres UANL in Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, anticipates a tough challenge from their competitors in July, particularly with Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji eyeing to topple the South African team.
Acknowledging the pressure, Kgatlana expressed excitement at the upcoming competition, stating, “I know that it’s going to be challenging… South Africa are the current champions and anyone, for sure will be fired up to prove themselves.”
Reflecting on past experiences, Kgatlana highlighted how the team faced adversity during the 2023 FIFA World Cup due to issues with remuneration and treatment by the South African Football Association (SAFA). Despite the setbacks, the team’s strong performances sent a powerful message.
Kgatlana noted a difference between the World Cup and the upcoming WAFCON, mentioning that at the former, South Africa exceeded expectations by advancing from the group stage despite being considered underdogs.
She emphasized the team’s determination and unity, stating, “We knew that everybody didn’t believe in us coming out of the group stage, and that was fine with us. We were the underdogs and all the pressure was taken away from us.”