– Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis was full of praise for her charges after they managed to defeat a resolute Senegal in the quarterfinals of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and set up a mouthwatering semi-final clash against the old enemy, Super Falcons of Nigeria.

South Africa beat the Lionesses of Teranga 4-1 on penalties as both sides could not be separated at the end of extra time with no goals on the board on Saturday (19 July) at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, Morocco.

Ellis introduced fresh legs in the second half, bringing on Amogelang Motau, Nonhlanhla Mthandi and Bongeka Gamede for Lebohang Ramalepe, Sibulele Holweni and Linda Motlhalo. Gamede was making her first appearance in the tournament.

“I said the game was not going to be easy, I said it was going to be a difficult game because of the group they were in and how they got out – and we didn’t expect anything less. The first 15 minutes we showed a bit of nerves, trying to get into the game but once we got into the game, we nullified the threat, their two tall strikers. We dealt very well with their long ball, but sometimes we gave the ball away too cheaply. Senegal has improved from the last time we played them, the coach has done a fantastic job,” said Dr Ellis.