Crucial showdown as Banyana rely on home advantage
Only one of these two African powerhouses will progress to the group stage of the women’s football tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
South Africa faces a crucial match against the Super Falcons in the Olympic qualifier return leg on Tuesday, needing a victory to advance.
Desiree Ellis’ team enters the game trailing 1-0 following their defeat in Abuja on Friday, April 5th.
As anticipation builds for this pivotal clash, GOAL examines the factors favouring South Africa, key Super Falcons players to contain, and individuals who must rise to the occasion for Banyana.
Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa utilized social media to urge South Africans to rally behind Ellis and her team by attending the crucial match at Loftus Versfeld, emphasizing its do-or-die significance.
In his post, Kodwa expressed, “On Tuesday, Banyana Banyana face Nigeria in a very important game to qualify for the Paris Olympics. I call on South Africans to come out in their numbers at Loftus Stadium tomorrow evening and get behind Banyana Banyana.”
As the reigning champions of the Caf Women’s Africa Cup of Nations consistently represent South Africa with pride, a substantial crowd is anticipated to attend and show their support as they embark on their next challenge.
The Banyana Banyana team boasts a wealth of players capable of stepping up when the situation demands.
Throughout the years, Ellis has had the privilege of working with a squad of individuals who demonstrate resilience, particularly in challenging circumstances.
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For instance, Kgatlana, a key figure in the team’s leadership, stands out as one of the most dependable goal-scorers, particularly when supported by the talents of Jermaine Seoposenwe, Linda Motlhalo, and Hildah Magaia, comprising a formidable attacking unit.
While Banyana possesses reliable assets in their lineup, Nigeria also boasts players eager to secure a spot in the Olympic Games after a 15-year absence from the competition. Spearheading their campaign is Atletico Madrid forward Rasheedat Ajibade, who proved to be a persistent threat to the South African defence in the first leg, utilizing her speed and skill to trouble down the flanks.
Additionally, young Pittsburgh Panthers midfielder Deborah Abiodun injected a youthful dynamism into the Super Falcons’ midfield, showcasing relentless energy and adeptness in covering the ground.
Chiwendu Ihezuo is another player who will pose a threat to the Banyana defence having kept the African champions’ backline busy in the first-leg clash. Ihezuo was fouled in the box by Noko Matlou and Ajibade netted the only goal of the tie from the resultant penalty.
A victory for Banyana Banyana signifies more than just success for the team; it resonates deeply with the entire nation.
Similar to the resonance felt when they secured the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title or when the Springboks emerged victorious in the Rugby World Cup, a triumph for any national team carries substantial weight in uniting and inspiring the nation. Advancing to the Olympics would symbolize precisely that.
