Motlhalo says Banyana need to sort out set piece defending

Banyana Banyana midfielder Linda Motlhalo says the team needs to work on defending set-pieces, as they keep on losing games due to that issue.

Banyana lost 2-0 against the US in their second friendly match played at TQL Stadium in Chicago on Sunday.

The South Africans conceded in 18^th minute of the match, thanks to Trinity Rodman’s volley.

The second goal came after Banyana were let down by defending, with Emily Sonnett scoring with a header from a corner. Banyana also had problems from set-pieces at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand earlier this year.

Banyana have now lost twice against the former world champions, with the first friendly having ended in a 3-0 defeat for Desiree Ellis’ charges on Friday.

Motlhalo says that they knew that they were going to find it hard coming up against the US, but playing such good teams is good for Banyana.

‘It’s important to play such teams’

“Two difficult games, but we came here prepared and knew that it’s not going to be easy games. But I think today (Sunday) we did well, we had moments where we kept the ball. I think one thing that we really need to work on is (defending) set-pieces because we always concede when it’s set-pieces.

“It is important to play such teams, because was a team we are preparing for the Olympics. So, we need to compete against the best and for the rankings to go up for Banyana.”

In taking the positives from the match, the midfielder believes Banyana are able to compete against the best nations in the world.

And she says things would be better for Banyana should there be a professional women’s league in the country.

“It’s important to have a professional league in South Africa. We don’t have it now, but we are able to compete against such good teams (as the US). So, can you imagine if we had a professional league, things would be better,” she added.

Individually, Motlhalo had a good game as she managed to make the team play. She says implementing the game plan worked for her.

“I think I understood my assignment and I wanted to keep things simple. That’s why I had a good game.”