Fired Up Banyana Set Sights on Super Falcons Showdown in WAFCON Semifinal

“This One’s Personal”: Desiree Ellis and Her Squad Prepare for Their Biggest Challenge Yet

There’s no such thing as easing into a WAFCON semifinal , especially when your opponent is Nigeria. As the Super Falcons chase their tenth continental crown, South Africa’s Banyana Banyana are gearing up for a fierce battle to keep their own title defence alive.

But for head coach Desiree Ellis, this isn’t just about football. It’s about pride, progress, and proving that South Africa belongs at the very top of the women’s game in Africa — again.

Not Resting on Past Glories

Speaking ahead of tonight’s much-anticipated semifinal, Ellis made one thing clear: history doesn’t hand out free passes.

“I don’t think past results mean anything,” said Ellis. “This is a different tournament. A lot has changed, and we need to be at our best to get through this.”

That’s a sobering truth, considering Nigeria’s legacy. The Super Falcons are the only side to have successfully defended the WAFCON title — a feat Banyana hope to match in Morocco. The match will be played in Casablanca, where Nigeria has grown familiar with the pitch, while South Africa must adapt quickly.

Mind over matter: How Banyana’s Mental Strength is the Secret Weapon

The road to the semifinal has been long, and Banyana aren’t hiding their fatigue. Still, Ellis says there’s renewed energy pulsing through the squad — thanks, in large part, to their mental coach.

“You could see the celebration and togetherness after we beat Senegal. That result gave the players a lift. The mental coach has been amazing. She was a game-changer in 2022, and again now,” Ellis said.

Fatigue is real, but belief is stronger.

A Rivalry Carved in African Football History

Banyana Banyana vs Nigeria has become one of Africa’s most compelling football rivalries. From group-stage duels to final clashes, these two sides have built a tense, tactical narrative filled with drama and grit.

Nigerian head coach Justin Madugu acknowledged the weight of the moment: “We know what rivalry means, and we will not take anything for granted.”

For South African fans, that rivalry is deeply emotional. On social media, supporters have rallied behind Banyana with messages of pride and encouragement. “No matter what happens, this team has inspired a nation,” one post read. Others have called tonight’s semifinal a “defining moment” for women’s sport in South Africa.

Beyond the Trophy: Why this game matters more than most

For Ellis, the significance of tonight’s clash goes far beyond a shot at the final. It highlights the need for better structures in women’s football — and the urgency of a truly professional league in South Africa.

“Playing in matches like these shows how far we’ve come,” Ellis explained. “But we need more support. A professional league would take us even further.”

The desire is clear. The momentum is real. And as kickoff approaches, Banyana Banyana are ready to rise.

📣 Don’t miss it:
Catch the WAFCON semifinal showdown between Banyana Banyana and Nigeria tonight. Follow live commentary and fan reaction on social media — and keep rooting for the queens in green and gold.

Where to watch: DSTV Channel 202, Sabcsport.com, Sabc and Sabc Plus

Source: Sabc Sports 

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