Brazil proved too strong for Banyana Banyana, hammering them 6-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Monday evening.
It was the second of two friendlies with the Copa America Femenino champions, but it proved to be a massive learning curve for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations winners.
Goals were scored by Adriana Leal da Silva, Debora de Oliveira (two), Beatriz Joao, Maria da Silva and Kathellen de Sousa.
It could have been more for Banyana, who were overwhelmed by the Brazilians.
Banyana coach Desiree Ellis said she will give everyone a run, and made four changes from the previous matches. Kaylin Swart, captain Janine van Wyk, Asande Hadebe, Nomvula Kgaole were all given the start and Andile Dlamini, Lebohang Ramalepe and Melinda Kgadiete were sacrificed.
It didn’t have the desired effect as Brazil started on the front foot, taking charge of the game. Just four minutes after the match started, Swart’s aimless clearance was blocked in her box and Adriana Leal da Silva scored the opener. It was her second goal in this series, having scored at Orlando Stadium, too.
Unlike what Banyana were exposed to in the WAFCON triumph in July, Brazil proved to be a different caliber. They came to this series in fine form, winning all games on their way to win the Copa America feminina without conceding a goal.
Banyana could not come out to impose their game. They were also losing easy balls which were the case in da Silva’s goal.
Brazil looked tactically superior and narrowed spaces, and were first in everything. This is what coach Ellis needs if Banyana aim to progress to the knockout stages in the World Cup finals next year.
However, Banyana improved and WAFCON star hero Hilda Magai almost combined with Jermane Seoposenwe but the effort was thwarted by Brazil goalie Lorena da Silva Leite. Magai again tried to search for Seoposenwe but too much power was put behind the ball.
While Banyana enjoyed a good spell of possession, Brazil added the second. Debora de Oliveira lobbed over the onrushing Swart, to ensure Brazil are two to the goods as they were at Orlando.
Swart continued to have a shocking game in goals for Banyana. With four minutes into the second half, she gifted the ball away and then blocked Beatriz Joao. Joao stepped up to slot the penalty and third goal of the night.
Three minutes later, Maria da Silva scored the fourth. Kathellen de Sousa added the fifth in the 59th minute. With 10 minutes to go, de Oliveira scored the sixth.
