Historic Moment for Banyana Banyana as Married Couple Takes Field Together in WAFCON 2026

In a groundbreaking moment for African women's football, South Africa's national team, Banyana Banyana, made history when married couple Robyn Moodaly and Gabriela Salgado took to the field together in their opening match against Tanzania at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. This landmark achievement marked the first time a married couple has played together in the same WAFCON match, underlining the growing inclusiveness of women's football on the continent. The Women's Africa Cup of Nations, which was first held in 1991, has evolved into Africa's premier women's football tournament, organized by the Confederation of African Football. With their appearance together, Moodaly and Salgado, both regular members of the South African women's national team, have added another memorable chapter to South Africa's rich history in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The couple, who have openly shared their relationship with fans, have been among the country's most recognizable footballers in recent years. Their joint appearance at WAFCON represents a unique milestone in African football history and highlights the increasing visibility of LGBTQ+ athletes in women's football. Moodaly, an attacking midfielder known for her creativity and technical ability, and Salgado, a forward who has represented South Africa at several major international tournaments, have both played key roles for Banyana Banyana. Salgado was born in Johannesburg, Gauteng, to a Portuguese father and a Lebanese mother, and was first called up to the South Africa national team on 22 January 2017. The couple's achievement has drawn widespread attention from football fans, with many celebrating their landmark moment as a significant step forward for African women's football. As Banyana Banyana seeks another successful WAFCON campaign, the participation of Moodaly and Salgado serves as a testament to the growing diversity and inclusiveness of the sport.