Defending Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions Banyana Banyana survive Senegal scare to set up blockbuster semi-final against Nigeria

Senegal started the match on the front foot, creating two early chances within the opening three minutes. South Africa, the defending champions, struggled to find rhythm in attack and offered little going forward. By halftime, the game remained goalless at 0-0.

Just a minute into the second half, captain Refiloe Jane nearly broke the deadlock with a powerful strike that sailed just over the crossbar. However, both sides struggled to create clear-cut chances thereafter, and the match drifted into extra-time with little to separate them.

In the first half of extra time, Lebohang Ramalepe thought she had given South Africa the lead, but her goal was ruled out for offside. In the second period, Banyana created a few promising chances in the opposition box and were awarded a penalty, only for it to be overturned by the referee following a lengthy VAR review.

With the score locked at 0-0 after extra time, the match was decided by a penalty shootout, in which South Africa triumphed 4-1 to seal the win and progress to the semifinal round.

Karabo Dhlamini has been a standout performer for Banyana Banyana, showing composure, focus and determination. A true pillar of strength at the back.

Despite Dhlamini’s commanding presence in defence, Banyana struggled to make an impact going forward, with their efforts posing little threat to the opposition goalkeeper.

South Africa have advanced to the semi-finals, where they will face Nigeria, who cruised to a 5-0 victory over Zambia on Friday, 18 July.