By Zukiswa Tshaka
Banyana Banyana’s quest to book a place in the next African Women’s Cup of Nations finals continues following a convincing 2-0 win over Algeria in a first leg qualifier played at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday afternoon.
Coach Desiree Ellis’ side had a bright start to the game stringing along nice passes starting from the back going forward. They, however, couldn’t break the Algerian side until the 40th minute when Hildah Magaia gave them a 1-0 lead going to half-time.
The visitors tried their best in the second half as they searched for an equaliser. Their efforts were nearly rewarded following a miss-communication between Banyana goalkeeper Andile Dlamini and defender Noko Matlou. Banyana survived courtesy of Bambanani Mbane’s clearance.
Later in the game, Ellis introduced Gabriela Salgado,Thalea Smidt and Nomvula Kgoale in an effort to increase more pressure on the visiting side. That paid off when Salgado provided an assist to Thembi Kgatlana, who increased the scored Banyana’s second goal in the dying minutes of the match.
Speaking after the end of the encounter, Ellis said that they tried to speed up the game to match the Algerians.
“We created so many chances in this game. We kept pushing, we knew we had to get the second goal,” the Cape Town-born coach remarked.
“During half-time we told the midfielders they needed to take the ball and be quick. We needed composure infront of the goals.”
Meanwhile, Banyana will travel to Algeria for the second leg, which is scheduled for Wednesday next week.
