Banyana Storms Into WAFCON Quarter-Final By Thumping Mali

Banyana Banyana has concluded the group stage of the Women’s AFCON 2024 in style, thrashing Mali 4-0 at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, Morocco, on Monday.

The South African women’s team dominated the match from the outset, creating numerous scoring opportunities in the first 15 minutes. Lebohang Ramalepe opened the scoring in the fourth minute, assisted by Jermaine Seoposenwe.

Refiloe Jane doubled the lead with a beautifully taken free kick in the 30th minute after Mali fouled Seoposenwe near the 18-yard box. Despite Aissata Traoré’s impressive free kick attempt on the stroke of halftime, goalkeeper Andile Dlamini made a crucial save to deny Mali a goal, and the first half ended 2-0 in favor of Banyana.

Coach Desiree Ellis introduced Sibulele Holweni, Gabriela Salgado, and Regina Mogolola at the start of the second half, seeking to add more goals to their tally. The trio’s introduction paid off as Hildah Magaia scored the third goal in the 61st minute, courtesy of Karabo Dhlamini’s excellent pass. Ronnel Donnelly sealed the win with the fourth goal in the 79th minute, assisted by Nonhlanhla Mthandi.

This victory saw Banyana finish top of Group C with seven points, while Mali, despite the loss, advanced to the quarterfinals as one of the best third-placed teams. Ghana also booked their spot in the quarterfinals after beating Tanzania 4-1, finishing second in Group C with four points.

Tanzania, on the other hand, was eliminated from the tournament with just one point.

Quarterfinal Matchups:

– Banyana Banyana vs. Senegal: Saturday
– Algeria vs Ghana: Saturday
-Morocco vs Mali: Friday
– Nigeria vs. Zambia: Friday