Banyana Banyana head coach, Desiree Ellis, has said her team doesn’t require any extra motivation ahead of their crucial semi-final showdown against long-time rivals Nigeria at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The defending champions face the Super Falcons on Tuesday (today) at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco, in what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two African women’s football giants.
South Africa are eyeing a second successive title, having lifted the trophy three years ago in Morocco a feat previously only achieved by Nigeria.
The Super Falcons, on the other hand, are pursuing their tenth WAFCON crown, continuing their “Mission X.”
Speaking to safa.net, Ellis expressed confidence in her team’s readiness despite the tight schedule.
“Nigeria is a familiar team that we’ve played against over the last couple of years. We travelled yesterday and today, and we will have our final training session and there’s not much you can do in one day,” she said.
“But there are a few things that you can tweak, and a few things that you can work on. The technical team has been really busy behind the scenes and leaving no stone unturned, so I think you don’t need motivation for a semifinal, and we are ready for the game.”
The four-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year was quick to downplay the significance of past meetings, noting that the context has changed.
“I don’t think it means a lot, it does mean, however, that we know we can get over the line, but I think past results don’t really mean anything because it’s a different tournament and it’s three years down the line,” she said.
“Also, it’s a different coach and some new players, but it’s the same Nigeria and they have the quality. We have to be on top of our game to make sure we get over the hurdle.
“They are the only country that has defended back-to-back on numerous occasions, and it would be big for our country,” added Ellis.
With the stakes at their highest, both teams will be eager to secure a spot in the final and edge closer to continental glory.
