While Banyana Banyana have won both their Group C matches to secure a place in the quarterfinals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), coach Desiree Ellis is demanding improved performances.
Banyana edged Nigeria 2-1 in the opening match before beating Burundi 3-1 in the second match. They take on neighbours Botswana in the last group match on Sunday and Ellis is convinced they can turn on a much more improved performance.
Banyana fluffed several opportunities in that game including a missed penalty.
“I thought we had enough on the field to get the result, but I feel we over-elaborated at times,” the coach told SAFA media. “Most shots we took went straight to the [Burundi] goalkeeper, whom I thought would get player of the match. We tried to change it a bit, and it looked better, and we created a lot of opportunities. We conceded poorly once again, and that’s something we have to work on.
“We said we needed three points to get us to the next round, and the three points are there. We are always looking for improved performances, but it was not a good day. But [at the end of the day], the result is important.”
Banyana have emerged as favourites to win the tournament, but Ellis would want to take it one game at a time. Their opponents on Sunday have had a decent campaign so far.
They beat Burundi in their opening tie of the campaign before losing to Nigeria in the second. Their hopes of qualifying for the quarterfinals hinge on winning against South Africa and the Super Falcons losing or drawing with Burundi.
Banyana’s encounter with The Mares takes place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium at 10pm [South African time]. Botswana will put their hopes on the attacking duo of Lesego Radiakanyo and Refilwe Tholakele. The duo has been nominated for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award.
