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South Africa Women Beat Nigeria 2-1, End Qualification Streak

8/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

South Africa women’s national team beat Nigeria 2-1 on August 13, 2026, ending Nigeria’s World Cup qualification streak since 1991.
Thembi Kgatlana scored in the 56th minute from a Ronnel Donnelly pass.
Reflo Jane doubled the lead in the 77th minute with a deflection off Christy Ucheibe and was sent off.
Christy Ucheibe converted a stoppage-time penalty while goalkeeper Kaylin Swart made five saves, a one-handed block of Kanu.

History

Historical Context

After the United States’ record-setting 1999 World Cup final, which drew 90,185 fans and expanded the tournament to sixteen teams, Nigeria became the first African side at the 1991 finals. Decades later, South Africa’s 2-1 win over Nigeria in August 2026 ended Nigeria’s uninterrupted World Cup streak, underscoring how early growth of women’s soccer reshaped African competition.

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Story summary

South Africa women’s national team beat Nigeria 2-1 on August 13, 2026, ending Nigeria’s World Cup qualification streak since 1991.
Thembi Kgatlana scored in the 56th minute from a Ronnel Donnelly pass.
Reflo Jane doubled the lead in the 77th minute with a deflection off Christy Ucheibe and was sent off.
Christy Ucheibe converted a stoppage-time penalty while goalkeeper Kaylin Swart made five saves, a one-handed block of Kanu.

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