Banyana Banyana's Desiree Ellis ready for Senegal WAFCON challenge after getting through 'tight games' - 'We’ve got to do even better'

Banyana Banyana recovered from a poor display in a draw against Tanzania to beat Mali 4-0 and top Group C.

This was a massive win that not only ensured their opponents finished third, but it lifted Ghana, who beat Twiga Stars 4-1, to the second position.

Have a look at what coach Desiree Ellis said after that convincing victory.

The former South Africa international is delighted with the spirit shown by her players.

"We have a couple of days to have a good look at them, but they’ve shown in a very difficult group that they can fight it out with the best," she said as quoted by SAFA Media.

"We have to be at our absolute best to get a result because again, it’s not going to be easy.

"I don’t think any game has been easy at this WAFCON. It shows that teams on the continent are improving – every FIFA International window, there are countries playing," she continued.

Ellis is convinced Banyana Banyana made a statement on Monday night, but insisted it will not be easy against Senegal in the last eight.

"This WAFCON is not just a one-sided tournament where you can predict an outcome," the 62-year-old continued.

"The games are so tight, and it’s one moment of magic or one moment of madness or even a mistake by someone, and then that’s it. This shows how tight the games are, so we have to be on top of our game against Senegal. They showed against Zambia and Morocco, where they had very tight games, but tonight was a statement and showed what we can do, and we’ve got to do even better."

The quarter-final is now scheduled for July 18, where Banyana Banyana will hope to show their quality by advancing to the semi-final.

It will be a massive boost for coach Ellis, who has been phasing out old players and giving upcoming ones a chance.