Banyana's Desiree Ellis defends tactics against Nigeria as Gabriela Salgado undergoes successful surgery

Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis defended her tactical approach from those who criticised her for starting the Caf Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) semi-final against Nigeria "defensively" after they lost 2-1 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Tuesday night.

The Super Falcons advanced via goals by skipper Rasheedat Ajibades, who slotted in from the penalty spot in the first half, and Michelle Alozie.

Banyana’s lone strike came from the penalty spot early in the second half from midfielder Linda Motlhalo.

For the better part of the first half Banyana were under siege from the Super Falcons' attack that came in from all directions.

During the post-match interviews with the press, Ellis was criticised for a defensive approach to the game.

“The way we were positioned upfront, we had Gaby (Gabriela Salgado) wide (left), we had Jermaine (Seoposenwe, centre forward) and Lebo (Lebogang Ramalepe, right). We (also) played with three midfielders in the middle. So when you say we started with six defensive players, I am not sure what you mean by that,” reiterated Ellis.

“Both Refiloe (Jane) and Bongeka (Magama) could go up (front) at times, we knew the long ball was going to come. So we changed our pivot so that when the long ball came, we’d pick up the second ball- which we did on many occasions. 

“When we went forward we had one (midfielder going up). Both Rifiloe and Bongeka can play defensively and attack. We put those two there so that when we win the ball they can go forward.”

As it were, it was not the first time that Ellis played this system in the ongoing Wafcon, but things will surely be a little different in the third-place playoff on Saturday after what appeared to be a horrific injury to Salgado.

The winger was stretchered off the field in emotional scenes from players of both sides, but the South Africa Football Association (Safa) brought the matters to the calm with an update on her “successful surgery” on Wednesday afternoon.

According to the Safa statement: “Salgado underwent a successful operation at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca on Wednesday. Salgado remains in hospital while she recuperates and will stay with the team upon release. She will fly back home with Banyana Banyana next week.”

The statement also quoted Banyana team doctor, Dr Linda Mokoena saying: “Gabi sustained a fracture of the mid-shaft of her left leg during the fixture against Nigeria and underwent a successful surgery at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca.

“She will be out of action for the rest of the year, but we are pleased that she received exceptional care from the medical team of Banyana Banyana, CAF and the hospital. 

“We were fully confident and comfortable with the procedure being performed in Morocco and would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to CAF and the dedicated staff at the Mohamed VI University Hospital for their professionalism and outstanding support during this time.”

The whole Banyana team reportedly visited Salgado at the hospital on Tuesday night after she had been stabilised following the injury.

Nigerian players also joined in on the well wishes for Salgado, as some of their players were distraught after the injury and were openly in tears along with those of Banyana during the game.

A few Nigeria players reportedly went to the hospital to visit Salgado on Wednesday and presented her with a signed Super Falcon jersey.

Banyana were given a day off and will return to action on Thursday to conclude preparations for the final match of the tournament. They face Ghana in the third and fourth place play-off at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. Kick-off is at 9pm (SAT).