The Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana’s record at the 2022 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations reads – played two, won two.
But this has not stopped head coach calling for an improved performance from her charges when they face neighbours and debutants Botswana in the final Group C match on Sunday (10 July).
Ellis’ warning comes after the South Africans squandered numerous goal scoring chances in their 3-1 victory over Burundi who were also making their debut in the tournament.
Banyana Banyana have already secured their spot in the quarterfinals while the East Africans bowed out of the competition following back to back defeats.
Thembi Kgatlana, Amogelang Motau and Linda Motlhalo hit the back of the net for South African against Burundi.
“The result is big but we are not completely happy with the performance. Yes, the three points are massive and sometimes during a tournament you have those games but still manage a win – that’s key for us. Still we are disappointed that we did not play as well as we know we can and we are always looking for improved performances,” said Ellis ahead of the Botswana clash.
“We created many opportunities (against Burundi) but once again our defence was suspect and that is something we have to work on for the Botswana encounter. Even though at times we have to grind out results, we are always looking to play better football.”
Botswana is expected to come with guns blazing in this much-anticipated COSAFA affair that will have a big bearing on the likely quarterfinal matchups.
Botswana knocked out South Africa in the 2020 Olympic qualifiers, which makes this clash even more interesting.
In the other Group C clash, Nigeria take on Burundi also eager for victory to secure their quarterfinal berth. The Super Falcons lost 2-1 to Banyana Banyana in their opening match of the competition, but bounced back with a 2-0 win over Botswana to get their campaign back on track.
The Nigerians will be hoping for another victory to get to six points.
South Africa is currently top of the group, with Nigeria and Botswana tied on three points each, while Burundi is yet to register a win.
The Group C matches will kick off at 22h00 South African time.
By Matlhomola Morake
