Nigeria Dashes Banyana’s Olympic Hopes
Banyana Banyana could not overturn the 1-0 deficit against Nigeria in the second leg of the 2024 CAF Olympic qualifying match at Loftus Stadium on Tuesday night.
They crashed out as Nigeria kept the clean sheet, something they needed to qualify for the Olympic Games that will be held in France in July.
This after Banyana had lost in the first leg in Abuja on Friday, when Ajibade Busayo converted the spot kick for the home side, grabbing the advantage heading to the second leg, with Banyana needing to score goals to go through.
But it wasn’t to be for Mzansi ladies, who slumped to the turf after the final whistle, missing yet another Olympics after failing four years ago.
Banyana’s job was easier as Nigeria star Asisat Oshoala, who was not available in the first leg, was only fit to be on the bench.
It meant Kgatlana, who is her rival, had no competition on the field as they are two of the finest players on the African continent at the moment.
Despite Oshoala being on the bench, Banyana struggled to find headways.
It led to coach Desiree Ellis depicting a glum face in the dugout as the game went to a half-time goalless.
Banyana started the second half with much better energy by probing Nigeria’s defense, but nothing was coming, leading to the crowd being nervous as the time wore on.
However, Hildah Magaia, who scored twice when Banyana claimed the WAFCON trophy two years ago, injected some life into Ellis’ side but lost her footing at a vital moment in the box.
Nigeria, to be fair, were there for the taking as they gave little in the attack.
SAFA president Danny Jordaan along with Minister of Sport Zizi Kodwa, and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi watched in horror as Banyana failed to get the all-important goals.
It also meant Lebobang Ramalepe could not crown her big day as she was making her 100th appearance for the national team. Nigeria widely celebrated at the end as they return to multi-sport event for the first time since 2008.