South Africa's national women's football team, Banyana Banyana, dominated Madagascar 4-0 in the first leg of the Olympics qualifiers second round at Free State Stadium on Friday. Striker Ronnel Donnelly scored her maiden national team hat-trick, while veteran forward Hildah Mogaia also registered her name on the score sheet. The match was played behind closed doors due to Madagascar's request, as they do not have CAF-accredited venues.
Banyana Banyana midfield maestro Linda Motlhalo emphasized that despite the convincing win, there is still room for improvement. "It was a really good job from the ladies, but we hold ourselves to high standards, so I think in terms of how we played, we can improve," Motlhalo said. The team will look to build on their performance in the second leg, scheduled for the same venue on Tuesday.
The second leg of the match will be played in front of fans, as it is now Banyana's home fixture. Banyana coach Desiree Ellis opted for a youthful starting XI, with veteran players such as Thembi Kgatlana and Amogelang Motau among those settling for berths on the bench. Motlhalo praised Ellis for integrating youngsters into the squad, saying it is essential for their growth and experience.
Motlhalo lauded Ellis's strategy, stating that a mixture of new and old players is crucial for the team's success. "This is what we want, a mixture of new and old players so that new players can get experience. It’s good seeing them getting some minutes," Motlhalo said. The team's performance in the qualifiers will determine their chances of representing Africa at the 2028 Olympics.
The Olympics qualifiers will continue with the third round set for February/March next year, featuring the remaining 16 nations. Round four will take place in October next year, and the final phase will be a month later. Only two teams will represent Africa at the 2028 Olympics, scheduled to run from July 11–29 in Los Angeles.
Banyana Banyana aim to qualify for the Olympics for the first time since 2016, where they made their second appearance in Brazil’s Rio, having debuted in London in 2012. The team's journey to the Olympics will be a significant milestone for South African women's football.
The team's focus now shifts to the second leg of the match, where they will look to seal their spot in the next round. With a convincing win in the first leg, Banyana Banyana are confident of their chances, but Motlhalo's call for improvement will be crucial in their quest for Olympic qualification.
Key points
- Banyana Banyana thrash Madagascar 4-0 in Olympic qualifier
- Linda Motlhalo calls for improvement despite convincing win
- Team aims to qualify for Olympics for first time since 2016
