Banyana Banyana honour Matlou with commanding victory over Malawi

Banyana Banyana sealed a 3-0 victory over Malawi in an international friendly on Saturday afternoon, a match that also marked the final appearance of veteran defender Noko Matlou in national team colours.

Played in wet conditions at the UJ Soweto Campus, the fixture formed part of Banyana’s preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title defence and the Fifa Women’s World Cup qualifiers. More significantly, it was the closing chapter of Matlou’s 17-year international career.

Matlou, who started her career with Banyana as a striker before moving into defence, captained the team one last time. She was substituted late in the second half, making way for Shakira O’Malley to a warm ovation from teammates, opponents, and fans who had gathered despite persistent rain.

“I’m very happy at this moment and going forward I wish the team luck and well for WAFCON and the World Cup qualifiers,” said Matlou after the match.

Wafcon, set for Morocco, was postponed due to the congested Fifa international calendar and will take place between July in the North African state for a consecutive edition. The home side got off to a confident start. Nonhlanhla Mthandi opened the scoring in the 13th minute, capitalising on early dominance in possession. 

Linda Motlhalo doubled the lead eight minutes later, calmly slotting in a penalty after a handball in the box. Malawi showed glimpses of threat, particularly through their physical approach, but Banyana Banyana remained composed in defence and clinical going forward. 

Mthandi added her second goal in the 51st minute to put the game beyond reach, finishing off a well-worked move that underlined the team’s control in midfield. Her performance earned her the Diski Queen of the Match accolade.

Head coach Desiree Ellis was satisfied with the display and the intensity of the contest, highlighting the importance of the physical test Malawi provided.

“I think we are on the right track. For this game, we wanted the physicality because we know what Malawi can do, and they gave us that,” said Ellis.

Matlou’s farewell added a special note to the match, with players and technical staff paying tribute to her contributions over nearly two decades. 

The defender exits as one of the most respected figures in South African women’s football history. The two teams will meet again on Tuesday at 3pm in the second match of the two-game series. 

That fixture will also mark another farewell, with experienced midfielder Nompumelelo Nyandeni set to make her final appearance for the national team. With momentum on their side, Banyana Banyana will aim to close the series on a strong note.