It was an impressive start to their title defence as South Africa secured a convincing 2-0 victory against Ghana on Monday.
Linda Mothalo put Bayana Bayana ahead with a composed spot kick in the 28th minute. This came after a VAR review confirmed a foul on Noxolo Cesane inside the box.
Jamaine Seoposenwe added their second shortly afterwards to seal their victory.
Ghana had a few chances of their own but lacked the finishing touch needed to find the back of the net. The West Africans hit the woodwork twice in what ultimately turned out to be a frustrating day at the office.
Speaking after the game, Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis credited her troops for playing to their strengths after been on the back foot in the opening minutes of the game.
”They had us under pressure in the first 15 minutes of the game, we couldn’t get out of our build up, we changed things a bit and then got out and started getting to the ball more because that is our strength.”
”I think the second goal also came at a great time, we could have finished it with a third one but they almost got back in.”
Despite having better opportunities on goal and holding a numerical advantage, Ellis said the game was evenly matched because Ghana had a few chances of their own.
Ellis also expressed delight in her side for keeping a clean sheet stating that her side played really well defensively.
”We know we wanted to get off to a good start, not getting a good result puts you on the back foot and now we can manage the situation like in 2018, 2022 we can manage because we always have to ensure our players stay fresh.”
Ellis further added that the weather was draining, stressing the importance of ensuring that players get enough rest before games.
Following that result South Africa now lead Group C on goal difference after Mali beat Tanzania 1-0 in Monday’s late fixture in Berkane. They will face Tanzania on Friday in their second match at this year’s tournament.
