South Africa beat Nigeria to record their first victory at the 2022 Women’s African Cup of Nations on Monday evening with a 2-1 scoreline.
Banyana Banyana took on the defending champions Nigeria at the Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan. The Super Falcons team is the highest ranked team at the competition, while Banyana is ranked the third best team in Africa.
The early parts of the game started really tentatively with both teams attacking but not able to create clear chances in front of goal.
While Banyana looked better on the eye, there were only a few close moments but no real shots on target in the entire first half.
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The second stanza kicked off with the first shot on target inside the box by Asisat Oshoala of Nigeria, but was gathered well by Banyana keeper Andile Dlamini in the 48th minute.
The game bursted into life when Noxolo Cesane turned and created a chance for Jermaine Seoposenwe, who converted with ease in the 60th minute.
Two minutes later, while Nigeria were licking their wounds, Banyana added to the scoreline when Refiloe Jane rolled in Hilda Magaia who made 2-0 in Rabat.
Banyana controlled the rest of the match, with Nigeria struggling to test Dlamini much. However, Nigeria pulled one back in injury time through Rasheedat Ajibade but it was a little too late for the defending champions.
The win cements Banyana’s status as one of the tournament favourites and was only third in 11 AWCON clashes with the Super Falcons.
