Desiree Ellis’ Banyana Banyana dominated possession for long periods. They also celebrated Linda Motlhalo’s 100th appearance for the national team. However, they failed to turn their control into goals. Tanzania defended bravely before striking twice to claim a famous victory.
LINDA MOTLHALO REACHES MILESTONE
Banyana Banyana started brightly and controlled the tempo. They pinned Tanzania deep inside their own half. Despite the return of Thembi Kgatlana, the South Africans struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Against the run of play, Tanzania took the lead in the 37th minute. Diana Msewa beat her marker with a brilliant run. Her shot took a deflection and wrong-footed Andile Dlamini before finding the back of the net.
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South Africa responded well before the break. Najat Idrisa failed to deal with a corner in stoppage time. The ball fell kindly for Bambanani Mbane, who headed home from close range to make it 1-1.
BANYANA BANYANA LEFT WITH WORK TO DO
The second half was evenly contested. Both teams searched for a winning goal. Ellis introduced Nthabiseng Majiya at half-time to add fresh energy in attack.
At the other end, Dlamini produced a fine save to deny Hasnath Ubamba from a dangerous free-kick. The match looked destined for a draw as the clock ticked down.
However, South Africa failed to clear their lines in the closing minutes. Tanzania punished the mistake on the counter-attack. Ubamba scored in the 87th minute to hand the Twiga Stars a famous 2-1 victory.
The result gives Tanzania a perfect start to their WAFCON campaign. Banyana Banyana return to action against Côte d’Ivoire on Friday, 31 July.
The final Group B game will be against Burkina Faso on Tuesday, 4 August. Both matches will take place at Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca. Only the top two teams will advance to the next round.