Majiya Leads Banyana In WAFCON Group Stage Win Against Botswana

Banyana Banyana beat Botswana 1-0 to finish top of Group C in an enthralling WAFCON match at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah on Sunday night. The South African senior women’s national team had a slow start and created a few chances, but the final product did not trouble Botswana shot stopper Maitumelo Boseja.

Coach Desiree Ellis was forced into an early substitute in the 33rd minute when Jermaine Seoposenwe got a knock and could not continue with the game. The player was replaced by forward Melinda Kgadiete. The first stanza ended with the teams deadlocked at 0-0.

The second half started much better with South African keeping possession, but they still struggled to capitalize and Ellis was forced into another sub when Thembi Kgatlana was stretched off and replaced by 18-year-old Nthabiseng Majiya.

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It did not take long for Majiya to get on the scoresheet with a breakthrough goal for Banyana coming in the 80th minute after an initial shot by Nomvula Kgoale was blocked. She made no mistake with the rebound. Banyana Banyana finished top of Group C with nine points from three wins and will face Tunisia in the quarterfinals.

THEMBI KGATLANA HOPING TO RECOVER FROM INJURY PICKED UP AGAINST BOTSWANA

Thembi Kgatlana experienced the ecstasy of a Woman of the Match accolade in South Africa’s 1-0 win against Botswana in their final fixture of Group C, but also the agony of picking up what looked like a nasty injury.

Kgatlana needed to be carried to a television interview on the back of a technical team member, with plenty of strapping around her ankle. She now has an anxious wait to see the outcome of a scan on the injury she picked up against a plucky Botswana.

“I have a sprain. I hope I will recover well and I hope it is not a serious injury,” Kgatlana said after the game. The striker said the Woman of the Match accolade “means a lot to me”. It is a source of pride, but it is team work that is most important. All the players played well today. We have been able to stay organized, work with a good team spirit and remain united,” said Kgatlana.

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Still sporting her trademark smile, despite the injury and the tough match against, Kgatlana was relieved Banyana could score the match winner in the final 10 minutes of the game.

“We tried to create some opportunities and the coach told us that we had to be patient. The match against Nigeria was different. We have teammates who are a good mix of players who play abroad and local players. I think we have a great team, we know how to adapt,” said Kgatlana.

As a tense quarter final awaits which holds the key to their FIFA Women’s World Cup fate, they will need all their experience and skill to keep progressing in the tournament.