Banyana Banyana stars Robyn Moodaly-Salgado and Gabriela Salgado have written their names into Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) history by becoming the first married couple to feature together in the same tournament match.
The South African internationals reached the milestone during Banyana Banyana’s opening Group Stage clash against Tanzania at the 2026 WAFCON in Casablanca, marking a historic moment for African women’s football.
The couple, who married in 2025 and are teammates at JWV FC, shared the pitch as South Africa kicked off their title defence. Although Banyana Banyana suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to the Twiga Stars, the occasion remained a significant personal and sporting achievement for the pair.
Robyn Moodaly-Salgado was named in the starting line-up, playing in an attacking midfield role behind striker Thembi Kgatlana. Gabriela Salgado made her long-awaited return to continental football in the 70th minute, coming off the bench in her familiar No. 9 jersey.
For Salgado, the appearance carried extra emotional weight. In 2024, she made her debut but suffered a severe leg fracture during the semi-final against Nigeria.
The injury ruled her out of Banyana Banyana’s successful campaign in Morocco, where Moodaly-Salgado was part of the squad that secured South Africa’s maiden continental title by defeating the hosts in the final.
Now reunited on Africa’s biggest stage, the married couple have added a unique chapter to WAFCON history.
Their appearance together not only celebrates their journey as partners off the field but also highlights the continued growth and visibility of women’s football across the continent.
As the tournament progresses, the Moodaly-Salgados will be hoping to help Banyana Banyana bounce back from their opening defeat and mount another challenge for continental glory while continuing to inspire fans with their remarkable story.
IOL
