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Ellis: “We Wanted to Win in Regulation Time” – Banyana Coach Reacts to Semi-Final Exit
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
South Africa Women’s National Team head coach Desiree Ellis has firmly dismissed suggestions that Banyana Banyana were playing for penalties in their 2-1 semi-final defeat to Nigeria at the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The dramatic contest at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium ended in heartbreak for the defending champions after Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie scored a stunning stoppage-time winner—an intended cross that sailed untouched into the net past a stranded Andile Dlamini.
Nigeria took the lead in the first half after Rasheedat Ajibade converted from the penalty spot.
South Africa equalized on the hour mark through Linda Motlhalo, also from the spot, after Osinachi Ohale was penalized for a foul on Hildah Magaia.
While many believed the match was destined for extra time, the Super Falcons struck late to book their place in the final.
At the post-match press conference, Coach Ellis refuted claims that her side was tactically aiming for a penalty shootout:
“We wanted to win. If we had taken our chances, we could have won the game,” she said.
“We were not playing for penalties. We believed we could finish the job in 90 minutes.”
The result ends South Africa’s WAFCON title defense, but the team still achieved a historic feat by becoming the first side to score against Nigeria in the tournament.
Ellis, who has led Banyana Banyana through five WAFCON campaigns, praised her team’s effort and acknowledged the heartbreak of the loss, especially after having beaten Nigeria during the group stage of the 2022 edition.
South Africa will now shift focus to the third-place play-off against Ghana on Friday, July 25, as they aim to finish the tournament on a high.