Jordaan Proud At Young Banyana For Reaching COSAFA Cup Final

SAFA president Danny Jordaan expressed pride and amazement at the youthful Banyana Banyana side that has reached the COSAFA Cup final, scheduled at Wolfson Stadium on Saturday (15:00).

Interim coach Maud Khumalo’s young team advanced to the final after a thrilling 4-1 penalty shootout victory over Mozambique in the semi-finals on Thursday. Banyana overcame an early deficit and held their nerve during the tense penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Isabella Alexa Ludwig confidently took the first penalty and scored, giving South Africa the early advantage. Tshegofatso Motlogelwa, Nobahle Mdelwa, and Kesha Hendricks also converted their penalties, while Mozambique missed their second attempt. South African goalkeeper Jessica Williams made a crucial save to seal the 4-1 victory.

South Africa will now face Zambia in the final at the same venue on Saturday, November 2nd.

“I want to congratulate Head of Delegation Kwenza Ngwenya, Coach Maud Khumalo, the entire technical team, and the players, led by captain Thalia Smidt,” said Jordaan to Sportswire. “Well done to the youthful Banyana. I’m proud of you and looking forward to the final.”

Khumalo was appointed interim coach while head coach Desiree Ellis led the main Banyana Banyana team on a European tour, facing Denmark and England. South Africa unfortunately lost both matches, 5-0 to Denmark and 2-1 to England.

Zambia reached the COSAFA Cup final by defeating defending champions Malawi 2-0 and will aim to defend their 2022 title.

As usual, admission to the final is free of charge. Tickets will be available at the stadium on match day and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Banyana Banyana are the record seven-time champions of this regional tournament.