Motlhalo demands more from Banyana Banyana after Madagascar win

Despite a 4-0 victory over Madagascar in the first leg of their second-round Olympic qualifier, Banyana Banyana midfielder Linda Motlhalo says the team still has plenty to improve.

Ronnel Donnelly scored her first hat-trick for the national team, while experienced forward Hildah Magaia was also on the scoresheet at Free State Stadium on Friday.

The match was played behind closed doors after Madagascar, nominally the hosts, requested that no spectators be allowed. The game was moved to South Africa because Madagascar does not have a venue accredited by CAF.

The second leg will also take place at Free State Stadium on Tuesday at 18:00. This time, supporters will be permitted to attend because it is Banyana Banyana’s home fixture.

“It was a really good job from the ladies, but we hold ourselves to high standards, so I think in terms of how we played, we can improve,” Motlhalo said.

“There’s still a lot of work to be done but I am happy that we won the first leg.”

Motlhalo also praised coach Desiree Ellis for giving younger players an opportunity in a starting XI that included several less experienced members of the squad.

Veteran players including Thembi Kgatlana and Amogelang Motau began the match among the substitutes, with Ellis opting for a youthful line-up.

“This is what we want, a mixture of new and old players so that new players can get experience,” Motlhalo said.

“It’s good seeing them getting some minutes.”

The third round of qualifying is scheduled for February/March next year and will involve the remaining 16 nations.

The competition will then move into a fourth round in October next year, with the final phase due to be played a month later.

Only two African teams will qualify for the 2028 Olympics, which will take place in Los Angeles from July 11-29.

Banyana Banyana are seeking to return to the Olympic Games for the first time since 2016, when they made their second appearance in the competition in Rio.

Their Olympic debut came in London in 2012.