South Africa began their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defense in commanding fashion, securing a 2-0 victory over Ghana in their opening Group C match on Monday, July 7.
Returning to the tournament for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2022, Banyana Banyana wasted no time in asserting their authority.
Their performance at Stade El Abdi reflected a team full of confidence and discipline, capitalising on key moments to seal all three points against a Ghanaian side making its return to the continental competition.
The South Africans set the tone early, dominating possession and dictating the tempo of the game.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 28th minute when they were awarded a penalty after sustained pressure in the Ghanaian box.
Midfielder Linda Motlhalo stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, giving South Africa a deserved lead.
Ghana attempted to respond, pressing high and looking for an equaliser.
However, their vulnerability at the back was exposed just six minutes later.
A swift counter-attack allowed Jermaine Seoposenwe to find space, and she made no mistake, slotting in a second goal to double South Africa’s advantage in the 34th minute.
With a 2-0 cushion at half-time, Desiree Ellis’s side managed the second half with tactical maturity.
They controlled the rhythm of the game, limiting Ghana’s chances while showing glimpses of attacking threat without overcommitting.
The Ghanaians, for their part, remained energetic but lacked the cutting edge needed to turn their forward momentum into goals.
Despite several efforts to claw back into the match, Ghana failed to break down a solid South African defence marshalled effectively by captain Janine van Wyk and goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.
Their inability to capitalise on attacking phases ultimately cost them, leaving them bottom of the group standings after the first round of fixtures.
South Africa’s well-drilled performance not only secured a vital early win but also sent a clear message to the rest of the competition that the reigning champions remain a formidable force.
With three points secured and a clean sheet to their name, Banyana Banyana now turn their attention to their next group stage fixture, while Ghana will need a quick turnaround in fortunes to keep their qualification hopes alive.
