Banyana Banyana Secure WAFCON Quarter-Final Spot with Dominant Win Over Mali
Banyana Banyana delivered an exceptional performance in their final group-stage match against Mali. The South African team secured a 4-0 victory, ensuring their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This result demonstrated their dominance and confirmed they are ready to defend their title.
Let’s explore the key moments from the match and look forward to what lies ahead for the team as they prepare to face Senegal in the quarter-finals.
A Perfect Start for Banyana Banyana
South Africa opened the match with remarkable intensity and focus. Despite already securing their quarter-final spot, Desiree Ellis’ team played with purpose and determination. The opening goal came early, just 15 minutes into the game. Jermaine Seoposenwe made a precise pass to Lebohang Ramalepe, who then fired a powerful shot into the top corner of the net from about 12 yards out.
This early goal set the tone for the match. Banyana Banyana controlled the pace, while Mali struggled to find their rhythm. South Africa maintained possession and applied pressure on the Mali defense, continuously looking for opportunities to extend their lead.
Refiloe Jane’s Stunning Free-Kick
Banyana Banyana grew more confident as the game progressed. In the 32nd minute, they earned a free-kick just outside the box. Captain Refiloe Jane stepped up to take it. With remarkable precision, she curled the ball over the Mali defensive wall and into the top corner of the net, leaving the goalkeeper no chance. This superb strike displayed Jane’s leadership and technical ability.
At 2-0, Banyana Banyana were firmly in control. Mali struggled to break down South Africa’s defense, while the South African attack continued to look dangerous.
Magaia’s Composed Finish
The second half saw more of the same from Banyana Banyana. In the 60th minute, Hildah Magaia scored South Africa’s third goal. After a well-coordinated team move, the ball was played into the box. Magaia was perfectly positioned to calmly slot the ball past the Mali goalkeeper. Her composed finish was a testament to South Africa’s attacking prowess.
Mali was unable to respond as South Africa continued to dominate the game. With every passing minute, the match seemed more and more beyond reach for Mali.
Substitutes Seal the Win
As the match neared its final stages, Ellis made a series of substitutions, bringing fresh legs into the game. One of these substitutes, Ronnel Donnelly, had a significant impact. In the 79th minute, Nonhlanhla Mthandi delivered a low cross into the box, and Donnelly was there to turn it home. This goal sealed the 4-0 victory for South Africa and demonstrated the depth of their squad.
The substitutes played an essential role in maintaining the team’s intensity. Banyana Banyana’s depth showed that the squad can rely on fresh players to make a difference at any stage of the match.
Looking Ahead: The Quarter-Final Clash with Senegal
With the 4-0 win behind them, Banyana Banyana now turn their focus to the quarter-finals. They will face Senegal in a high-stakes encounter on Saturday night. Senegal has been in strong form throughout the tournament, but after their dominant performance against Mali, South Africa can enter the match with confidence. Banyana Banyana’s strong defense, creative midfield, and potent attack provide a solid foundation for success. They will need all of these qualities to overcome Senegal and secure a place in the semi-finals.
Check also: Banyana Banyana Ready to Defend WAFCON Crown in Morocco
Banyana Banyana’s 4-0 victory over Mali was a clear message to the rest of the competition: the South African team is ready to defend their title. With a balanced approach that combines attacking strength and defensive stability, Banyana Banyana will be a tough opponent for any team.
Their quarter-final clash with Senegal will undoubtedly be a true test, but if their performance against Mali is any indication, they are well on their way to claiming the trophy once again.
