Sports

South Africa Beat Ghana 2-0 in WAFCON 2025 Opener

Published

2 months ago

July 8, 2025

Chiraag

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Banyana Banyana make a statement as Motlhalo and Seoposenwe secure victory in their Group C debut

The champions have arrived and they mean business. South Africa’s women’s national football team, Banyana Banyana, claimed a confident 2-0 victory over Ghana in their opening match of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), held in Oujda, Morocco, on 7 July.

Under the calm leadership of coach Desiree Ellis, the titleholders showed early intent. Just before the half-hour mark, a VAR-confirmed penalty was awarded after a foul on the energetic Noxolo Cesane. Linda Motlhalo stepped up and slotted it into the bottom right corner with composed precision. That opening goal confirmed their early dominance, exactly the statement of intent this side was looking to make.

Not content to sit back, South Africa struck again minutes later. Full-back Lebohang Ramalepe powered down the flank and threaded a precise pass to Jermaine Seoposenwe, who finished low into the far corner to double the lead. At just 35 minutes in, Banyana had already made their intentions clear.

Ghana’s comeback hopes fade

Ghana, making their return to WAFCON after missing the last edition in 2022, struggled to match South Africa’s pace, structure, and composure. While they improved slightly after the break, their finishing let them down. Both Evelyn Badu and Alice Kusi struck the crossbar in moments that could have turned the match.

South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini played a crucial role, pulling off key saves to keep her clean sheet intact. As the match wore on, Ellis introduced fresh legs in the form of Hildah Magaia and Ronnel Donnelly. The substitutions helped Banyana absorb late Ghanaian pressure and manage the game to the final whistle.

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Image 1: News24

Crowd and culture: SA pride shines

Supporters were quick to rally behind Banyana Banyana. Social media lit up with praise for the team’s sharp attack and tactical maturity. “That’s our spirit: champions showing champions’ intent,” read one tweet.

In the stadium, the South African section was lively, with flags waving and songs echoing through the stands, a visual reminder that this team carries more than just footballing talent; they carry national pride.

Ghanaian fans, though disappointed, showed resolve. Online commentary quickly turned toward strategy and regrouping, with tough fixtures ahead against Mali and Tanzania in a challenging Group C.

More than just a match

This victory marks South Africa’s third consecutive win in a WAFCON tournament opener. Having previously beaten Nigeria in both 2018 and 2022, Banyana Banyana are steadily building a reputation not only as champions but also as consistent powerhouses in African women’s football.

Under Desiree Ellis, a legend in her own right, the team has become known for its discipline, vision, and growing international presence. With frontline stars like Motlhalo and Seoposenwe firing and the defence standing firm, South Africa has launched their title defence with confidence and clarity.

WAFCON 2025 is just getting started, but Banyana Banyana have already sent a message to the continent: they’re here to conquer, not just compete.