A 2-1 extra-time defeat to Namibia in the COSAFA final marks the end of a spirited run for our youngsters. Coach Desiree Ellis is focused on the silver lining, hailing the bravery of a squad that included stars as young as 16. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Banyana Banyana’s coach Desiree Ellis expressed pride in her young squad, even after a 2-1 defeat by Namibia in the final of the COSAFA Women’s Championship on a sweltering Polokwane Sunday afternoon.
The tournament has served as a critical platform, showcasing the untapped potential within South Africa’s emerging football talent.
Ellis, with her optimistic outlook on the future, praised her team’s bravery and tenacity throughout the competition.
“I am very proud of the team. The youngsters were brave, showed great courage and pushed to the limit. We now have a larger core group because of this,” she noted.
The Banyana coach highlighted the significance of the defeat, noting that the youthful players — some as young as 16 — would gain invaluable experience. “The medal will remind them never to experience the same feeling again.
“This was a worthwhile exercise, and we can now safely say there is a great future for South African women’s football,” Ellis declared.
The match started with Banyana Banyana adjusting their strategy, making three tactical changes from their semi-final victory against Zimbabwe.
Sibongakonke Mzobe, Bongiwe Thusi, and Bonolo Mokoma were brought into the starting lineup, replacing Sibulele Holweni, Gabriela Moodaly-Salgado, and Isabella Ludwig. This strategic shift paid dividends early on when Mokoma nearly put her team ahead, her fearsome shot clattering off the crossbar, signalling a spirited start.
In the 38th minute, Nthabiseng Majiya broke the deadlock with an exquisite goal, netting her second of the tournament. However, Namibia quickly showcased their tenacity, with a brilliant long-range effort from substitute Muhinatjo Hanavi equalising in the 54th minute.
As the match reached its climax, neither side could secure a lead in regulation, so the match went to extra time. Unfortunately for Banyana Banyana, Namibia seized the moment, scoring decisively to claim their first-ever COSAFA Women’s Championship title.
Reflecting on the match, Ellis commented, “Goals win you matches, and I think throughout the game, even before extra time, we had enough chances to ensure that we win.”
She acknowledged some defensive lapses while also commending Namibia’s robust performance. “Winning a gold medal would have been fantastic, but we fell short. We must also congratulate Namibia; they were resolute and defended really well,” added Ellis.
Throughout the tournament, South Africa displayed impressive offensive flair, with six different goal scorers, including Majiya, who finished among the top contributors with 2 goals.
Other scorers included Mokoma, Moodaly-Salgado, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Thorisho Mphelo, and Sibulele Holweni, all of whom contributed to the tally. In a separate bronze medal playoff, Zambia triumphed over Zimbabwe 3-1, further enriching the tournament narrative.