RABAT, MoroccoTeam·Morocco – Lebo Ramalepe, typically a stalwart right-back for both club and country, has seamlessly transitioned into an influential winger for Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana at the ongoing 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in MoroccoTeam·Morocco. This tactical adjustment by coach Desiree EllisCoach·Desiree Ellis has unlocked a new dimension to Ramalepe's game, significantly bolstering South Africa's attacking options.
Ramalepe's impact in her expanded role has been immediate and profound. She was notably named the TotalEnergies Woman of the Match following Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana's emphatic 4-0 victory over Mali, a performance where she provided two crucial assists. Her ability to drive forward and create opportunities from wide positions has added considerable dynamism to the team's offensive play.
Beyond her on-field contributions, Ramalepe carries the significant responsibility of captaining Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana. Her leadership is vital, particularly as the team navigates the high stakes of a major continental tournament. Ahead of their opening WAFCON match against TanzaniaTeam·Tanzania, Ramalepe underscored the importance of a strong start.
"Collecting three points in the first game will definitely set the tone in group stages. So we are going to give our all to make sure we sit well in the group. Yes, it won't come easy - so as a team we must be willing to fight until the last minute," Ramalepe stated. She also acknowledged the broader implications of the tournament, adding, "We have to dig deep and do our best to secure a spot in the 2027 FIFA World Cup."
Coach Desiree EllisCoach·Desiree Ellis has publicly praised Ramalepe's versatility, recognizing her effectiveness in a more advanced position. This tactical flexibility has been a key factor in Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana's journey through the group stages.
Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana secured their place in the WAFCON quarterfinals, finishing second in Group B with four points. Their group stage campaign saw them experience a 2-1 loss to TanzaniaTeam·Tanzania, followed by a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Ivory CoastTeam·Ivory Coast. They then clinched their quarter-final berth with a crucial 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso, a match decided by a goal from Thembi Kgatlana.
Their next challenge is a formidable one: a quarter-final clash against tournament hosts MoroccoTeam·Morocco in Rabat on Saturday, August 8, 2026. This match holds immense significance, as the 2026 WAFCON serves as the primary qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will automatically secure their tickets to the global showpiece, while the losing quarter-finalists will still have an opportunity to qualify through an inter-confederation playoff. This means Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana are just one victory away from booking their spot in the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
At club level, Lebo Ramalepe is a pivotal figure and captain for Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies. Her impressive club accolades include winning the 2023 CAF Women's Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League, the 2023 COSAFA Women's Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League, and the South African Women's League title. Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies had a strong representation in the Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana WAFCON 2026 squad, with 11 players called up, underscoring the club's significant contribution to the national team. Ramalepe has also expressed confidence in her club's ability to defend their league title in the newly introduced Hollywoodbets Super League Amplified format.
As Banyana BanyanaTeam·Banyana Banyana prepare for their critical quarter-final encounter, Ramalepe's leadership and enhanced attacking prowess will be crucial in their quest to secure a semi-final spot and, ultimately, a place at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
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