Banyana Banyana of South Africa kicked off their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence with a professional 2-0 victory over Ghana at the Honneur Stadium in Rabat on Monday.
Goals from Linda Motlhalo and Jermaine Seoposenwe sealed all three points for Banyana Banyana, who showed their experience and tactical discipline under searing Moroccan heat.
The breakthrough came in the 28th minute after Noxolo Cesane was fouled in the box. Motlhalo stepped up and confidently slotted home the penalty, sending Ghana’s goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan the wrong way.
Just six minutes later, South Africa doubled their advantage. A perfectly weighted pass from Lebogang Ramalepe split the Black Queens’ defence and found Seoposenwe, who made no mistake with a composed first-time finish.
Despite the absence of key players Hildah Magaia and Thembi Kgatlana, head coach Desiree Ellis made several tactical tweaks that paid off.
Andile Dlamini was in goal, while midfielders Refiloe Jane and Motlhalo controlled the tempo with maturity and precision.
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Ghana started brightly but struggled to maintain their early intensity. South Africa absorbed the pressure and gradually imposed their structure and rhythm on the game.
The Black Queens nearly pulled one back in the second half, with Alice Kusi hitting the crossbar after cutting inside from the left.
Defending champions Bayana Bayana of South Africa. Photo Credit: X
Evelyn Badu also struck the woodwork with a header in the 80th minute as Ghana pressed for a response.
But Banyana remained composed and compact, managing the final stages with tactical maturity to preserve their clean sheet.
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It was a composed and convincing performance from the reigning champions, who now top Group C and will face Tanzania on Friday.
