Banyana Banyana Aim to Keep WAFCON Hopes High with a Win Over Tanzania

As the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations heats up, defending champions Banyana Banyana are gearing up for their second group stage clash — this time against Tanzania’s Twiga Stars — and head coach Desiree Ellis isn’t taking anything for granted.

Coming off a confident 2-0 win against Ghana, the South African women’s national team are riding a wave of momentum, but Ellis is quick to remind fans and players alike that reputation alone doesn’t win matches.

It’s Not Just About History, It’s About Execution

While South Africa boasts a stronger pedigree and higher FIFA ranking, Ellis knows that football doesn’t always follow the script.

“We can’t afford to be complacent,” she said during the pre-match press conference. “It’s 11 vs 11. Tanzania are analysing us just as much as we’re planning for them.”

This marks only Tanzania’s second WAFCON appearance since 2010, and while they are one of the tournament’s lower-ranked sides, they’re entering tonight’s match hungry for their first points.

Staying Sharp in the Final Third

Against Ghana, Banyana showed their attacking intent but missed several clear chances that could’ve made the result even more emphatic. Ellis is keen for her team to be more clinical.

“When we get into the final third, we must convert. We had chances to seal the game earlier and Ghana nearly punished us by hitting the crossbar,” Ellis said.

With Thembi Kgatlana and Jermaine Seoposenwe in good form, the pressure will be on the front line to turn opportunities into goals.

Tanzania’s Do or Die Approach

Meanwhile, Tanzania’s head coach Bakari Shime has made their game plan clear: play their brand of football, but go in with full intent to win.

“This is a crucial match for us. We need the three points, otherwise we won’t make it to the next round,” said Shime. “We respect South Africa, but we came here to compete, not to participate.”

It’s a statement that reflects a growing confidence in emerging African sides — and Ellis, a four-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year, is wise to acknowledge it.

South Africans Rally Behind Their Queens

Across social media, local fans have been showing unwavering support for Banyana Banyana, with hashtags like #BanyanaForTheWin and #WAFCON2025 trending after the Ghana victory.

One user posted on X:  “This team continues to make us proud! Keep shining queens.” Another added: “Desiree Ellis deserves her flowers every single tournament. She’s a national treasure!”

What’s At Stake?

A win against Tanzania would all but secure South Africa’s progression to the knockout stages, giving them breathing room before their final group fixture. But a slip-up could complicate things — and in tournament football, anything can happen.

So while fans may expect an easy ride, Banyana’s coaching staff are approaching the game with the same intensity they would bring against a continental heavyweight.

Kick-off:
📍 Time: 2100

📍 Venue: Honneur Stadium

Where to Watch: 
1. DSTV: Channel 202

2. SABC Channel, SABC+ or SabcSport.com

There’s no doubt that Banyana Banyana are favourites going into this clash. But as Ellis so aptly put it — underestimating your opponent is football’s biggest trap. And in a tournament where every point matters, tonight’s result could shape the rest of their WAFCON journey.

Source:SABC Sport

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