WAFCON 2024: South Africa Eye Knockout Spot as They Face Tanzania in Crucial Group C Clash
Defending champions South Africa continue their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence with a decisive Group C encounter against East African challengers Tanzania on Friday, 11 July.
After a strong start with a 2-0 victory over Ghana, Banyana Banyana are aiming to secure maximum points against the Twiga Stars to guarantee passage to the knockout stage of the biennial continental showpiece. The match kicks off at 21:00 (SA time) at Honneur Stadium and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL Channel 202 and SABC 3, with streaming available via the DStv Now App.
This second Group C match holds significant weight for both teams. For Desiree Ellis and her Banyana squad, a win would all but confirm their progression into the next phase. For Tanzania, who narrowly lost their opening fixture 1-0 to Mali, it’s a must-win scenario if they hope to remain in contention.
South Africa have never lost to Tanzania in their previous meetings, boasting three wins in as many outings. However, with the Twiga Stars showing promise and flair in their opening match despite the loss, Ellis’ charges will know not to underestimate their opponents.
Tanzania will be buoyed by the return of captain Opa Clement, who missed the opening match due to suspension. Her leadership and experience at the back will be critical as the East African side looks to keep the reigning champions at bay. Coach Bakari Shime will also rely on influential players like Janet Pangamwene and midfielder Enekia Kasonga to offer creativity and control in midfield, while goalkeeper Fatuma Omary is expected to be kept busy against Banyana’s potent front line.
Tanzania’s predicted XI includes Najiati, Anastazia, Opa, Julitha, Janeth, Donisia, Stumai, Diana, Enekia, Asha, and Jamila.
South Africa are without talismanic forward Thembi Kgatlana, who withdrew from the tournament due to personal reasons. Still, the squad has adapted well under Ellis, with Refiloe Jane making an impactful return after a long injury layoff and Linda Motlhalo continuing to spark attacking movements. Midfielder Noxolo Cesane, who recently celebrated her 50th international cap, is expected to be a driving force once again, while goalkeeper Andile Dlamini will anchor the defence alongside veterans like Bambanani Mbane and Karabo Dhlamini.
Banyana’s predicted XI features Dlamini, Dhlamini, Makhubela, Mbane, Magama, Jane, Motau, Motlhalo, Cesane, Ramalepe, and Seoposenwe.
With three points already on the board, South Africa are in a strong position. A win will seal their spot in the quarterfinals and give them breathing room ahead of their final group match against Mali. For Tanzania, anything less than a win could see them eliminated before the final group game, as they chase their first ever knockout round appearance at WAFCON.
The match kicks off at 21:00 SA time at Honneur Stadium and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL Channel 202, SABC 3, and streamed via the DStv Now App. With both teams hungry for success and a place in the knockout stages on the line, Friday night’s clash promises to be an exciting battle. Will Banyana continue their title defence in style, or can the Twiga Stars cause a major upset? All eyes will be on Honneur Stadium.
