South Africa’s national women’s football team, Banyana Banyana, is gearing up for a crucial showdown against Nigeria in the 2024 Olympic Games qualifying fixture. Head coach Desiree Ellis is already strategizing for the upcoming matches, with the first leg scheduled to take place in Nigeria on April 5, followed by the return fixture in Pretoria on April 9.
Ellis is well aware of the challenge that the Super Falcons pose and emphasizes the importance of securing a positive result in the first leg. She acknowledges Nigeria’s quality and the need for her team to stay focused and clinical throughout the 90 minutes.
“We cannot underestimate Nigeria. They are a quality team, and we need to be at our best to outscore them and avoid conceding goals,” Ellis stated in an interview with SABC Sports. “Our goal is to create scoring opportunities and convert them into goals. We have to be disciplined and take our chances when they come.”
With a spot at the Olympics on the line, Banyana Banyana is leaving no stone unturned in their preparation for the upcoming fixtures. The team is determined to showcase their talent and secure a place in Paris 2024. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting clash between two African football powerhouses.