The match marked Banyana's first appearance since July, when they lost to Ghana in a third-place playoff at the 2024 WAFCON. The result extended their winless run in competitive fixtures to three matches.
The SA Women, who were without head coach Desiree Ellis due to ongoing contract negotiations with SAFA, were led by assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli.
Forward Kgalebane Mohlakoana gave South Africa the lead in the 43rd minute after capitalizing on a defensive error, finishing off a pass from Bonolo Mokoma.
But the hosts equalised just before halftime through Ruth Monique Kipoyi, leaving the tie level ahead of next week's second leg in Johannesburg.
Despite several chances in the second half, including efforts from Lebo Ramalepe and Bongeka Gamede, South Africa failed to regain the lead.
The draw, however, means Banyana take a valuable away goal into the second leg at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, where a win or goalless draw will secure qualification for the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.
Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis praised her team's resilience after South Africa edged Nigeria 2-1 in a dramatic 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup qualification playoff in Casablanca on Thursday.
Banyana Banyana secured a place in the inter-confederation play-offs with a 2-1 victory over Nigeria, moving one step closer to qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Nigeria forward Asisat Oshoala believes the Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana will enter Thursday's 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup play-off with everything to fight for after their disappointing exits from the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
Cameroon reached the Women's Africa Cup of Nations final after beating hosts Morocco 3-1 on penalties following a goalless semi-final in Rabat.
