SEDIBENG.- It was a wakeup call for Banyana Banyana when they suffered a 3-1 defeat to Zambia ahead of their African Woman Cup Of Nation Qualifier match against Algeria on Friday. Both teams used the match to prepare for the upcoming 2022 Morocco Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) two-leg qualifiers.
This defeat for Banyana Banyana could work in their advantage to go into encounter against Algeria well prepare after this international friendly match’s disappointment. This was the first competitive match for Banyana Banyana after a long time. These results didn’t come a shock taking into consideration that they have been inactive for sometimes.
Despite the 3-1 defeat, Banyana Banyana put a brave fight against their well-oiled opponents with some exciting movement on and off the ball. The score is not the true reflection of the game taking into consideration the number of scoring opportunities Banyana Banyana missed on the day.
No doubt, Desiree Ellis’ side will come into this game with more determination taking into consideration that they will be playing at home. Sedibeng Ster Sport don’t see Algeria beating Banyana Banyana come Friday. Elis said their defeat to Zambia was a wakeup call coming into this game against Algeria.
However, she said this was not the results she expected but they have since put this defeat behind them ahead of this crucial match against Algeria. Speaking to the media, Elis said she took some positive things from their game against Zambia going into this Friday important qualifier match.
“Look obvious we are disappointed with the results against Zambia, but we will regroup ahead of our game against Algeria. We have already put this defeat behind us, and we are hard at training to work on some of the aspects of the game. I have no doubt that the girls will be on top of their game come Friday. The spirit is very high among the players despite the defeat against Zambia,” said Elis.
To date, Elis has an impressive record since she was appointed Banyana Banyana coach and have already established herself as one of the best African women coaches. This former Banyana Banyana midfielder has transformed Banyana Banyana into African women giants.
