In the opening match of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the reigning champions, South Africa, secured a 2-0 victory against Ghana at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, Morocco. This triumph marks a strong beginning for Banyana Banyana despite facing challenges during their preparation.
Leading up to the tournament, South Africa’s training was impacted by a temporary boycott related to player payment disputes, coupled with the absence of key striker Thembi Kgatlana, who withdrew for personal reasons. Despite these setbacks, the team demonstrated their resilience against a competitive Ghanaian side, the Black Queens.
The match saw Banyana Banyana take the lead in the 28th minute through a penalty. Following a foul on Noxolo Cesane—who notably made her 50th international appearance—Linda Motlhalo delivered a calm finish into the bottom corner, displaying composure under pressure.
Just six minutes later, South Africa extended their advantage. A powerful run down the right flank from Lebohang Ramalepe culminated in a precise pass to Jermaine Seoposenwe, who found the back of the net with a sharp first-time effort, beating goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan at her near post.
The second half offered opportunities but no additional goals, with South Africa appearing more open in their play. The most significant chance fell to Seoposenwe in the 63rd minute; however, her low shot across the goal did not find the target. Despite multiple opportunities, including efforts from substitutes Hildah Magaia and Ronnel Donnelly, South Africa could not capitalize further.
On the flip side, Ghana was not without its chances, hitting the woodwork on two occasions. Alice Kusi’s long-range strike in the 60th minute rattled the goal post, and later, Evelyn Badu’s header from Comfort Yeboah’s cross crashed against the bar during the final moments of the match.
Despite a few missed opportunities, South Africa’s performance warranted the win, positioning them favorably as they look ahead to their next matches against Tanzania on Friday and Mali the following Monday, where the team hopes to claim the top spot in Group C.
In another Group C match, Mali triumphed over Tanzania with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a goal from Saratou Traoré in the first minute of first-half stoppage time.
Matchday 2 will commence on Wednesday, featuring Zambia against Senegal at 5 PM local time. The same day, hosts Morocco will face the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rabat at 8 PM.
Highlights
Moment of the Day: Saratou Traoré’s decisive goal from inside the box during a free-kick scenario proved to be the standout moment of an otherwise subdued day in the tournament.
Player of the Day: Linda Motlhalo’s impact was impossible to overlook. Her expertly converted penalty and adept management of the midfield were crucial, especially in the absence of Kgatlana. Formerly associated with Houston Dash and Racing Louisville, Motlhalo’s performance underscores her role in maintaining South Africa’s competitive edge.
