Banyana Banyana began their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2025 campaign with a solid 2-0 win over Ghana at Honneur Stadium in Oudja on Monday night, despite a performance that was far from flawless.
The defending champions struck through a composed penalty from Linda Motlhalo and a clinical finish by veteran forward Jermaine Seoposenwe, setting the tone in Group C. While the display may not have dazzled, the South Africans demonstrated control, composure, and the kind of tournament experience that comes from lifting the title in 2022 on Moroccan soil.
Fresh Faces and Tactical Caution
Only two changes featured from the historic 2022 WAFCON-winning side, with Fikile Magama and Tiisetso Makhubela stepping into the starting XI. Banyana adopted a cautious setup, opting for a flat back-three of Magama, Makhubela, and Bambanani Mbane. In a notable switch, Andile Dlamini returned as the starting goalkeeper, replacing Kaylan Swart.
The match began scrappily, with both sides struggling to find a rhythm amid physical early exchanges. But South Africa were the first to settle, thanks to Amogelang Motau’s sharp vision and passing in midfield.
The breakthrough came in the 28th minute after Sinoxolo Cesane – celebrating her 50th cap – was fouled inside the box by Ghana’s Grace Asantewaa. After a brief VAR review by Moroccan referee Bouchra Karboubi, Motlhalo calmly converted from the spot.
Seoposenwe Strikes Moments Later
Just four minutes later, Seoposenwe added Banyana’s second. The striker latched onto a well-weighted through-ball from full-back Lebogang Ramalepe and produced a classy first-time finish to double the lead. It was a special moment for Seoposenwe, who has already announced that this WAFCON will mark the end of her international career.
While Banyana’s momentum dipped slightly before the break, Dlamini kept the scoreline intact with a series of important saves, allowing South Africa to enter halftime with a two-goal cushion.
Missed Chances and Late Ghana Pressure
Seoposenwe had a golden opportunity to score again in the second half, replicating her earlier movement after a clever setup by Motlhalo, but she couldn’t convert the one-on-one chance against Ghana keeper Cynthia Konlan.
The Black Queens applied pressure in the latter stages, with Alice Kusi proving particularly dangerous on the wing. Ghana struck the crossbar twice and kept Dlamini busy, but they couldn’t find a breakthrough.
South Africa will next face Tanzania in their second Group C match on Friday at 9pm (SA time), again at Honneur Stadium, as they look to secure early qualification to the knockout stages.
Banyana Banyana Stay on Course
Despite not hitting their usual attacking heights, Banyana Banyana showed their championship pedigree with a composed and disciplined performance to claim all three points against a determined Ghana side. With key players stepping up in crucial moments and the defence holding firm under pressure, the team remains firmly on track to progress from Group C. As they prepare to face Tanzania next, Banyana will aim to build momentum and sharpen their attacking edge in pursuit of back-to-back WAFCON titles.
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