Banyana Banyana suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Super Falcons of Nigeria in the fourth round of the 2024 Olympics qualifiers at the MKO Abiola Stadium on Friday night.
Below are the talking points from this encounter between Desiree Ellis‘ side and Nigeria.
NIGERIA PULL PLUG ON BANYANA BANYANA BROADCASTING RIGHTS
Just a few minutes before the game, SAFA confirmed that the away first-leg Olympic qualifier between Banyana and the Super Falcons in Abuja will not be broadcast on the SABC platforms.
The SA football governing body stated that they were not able to secure the feed from the host broadcaster in Nigeria on a reciprocal basis that would have been shared with their partner [the SABC] back home.
Therefore, this meant that the showdown won’t be broadcast in Mzansi, as they rely on agreements that the hosts have.
The Association further added that they would endeavour to share their home feed with Nigeria when they host them in SA.
AJIBADE BUSAYO SCORES FROM THE SPOT
In the 42nd minute, Nigeria captain Ajibade Busayo put the hosts in front from the spot kick.
The penalty was awarded to Nigeria after a foul by Noko Matlou inside the box.
HIGH TEMPERATURES
Despite the defeat, Banyana managed to put in a good fight to try to bounce back, playing under scorching. It was 34 degrees Celsius in Abuja today.
REFILOE JANE STARTS
Jane played her first match for Banyana since the long-term injury she sustained during the 2023 Women’s FIFA World Cup. She captained the team as they lost to Nigeria.
THE DECIDER GAME
The return leg will be played on Tuesday, 9 April, at 19:30 at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
The overall winner of the two-legged fixture will represent the African continent at the Paris Olympic Games, which will be held from 24 July to 10 August 2024.
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