Banyana Banyana secured a 2-0 win over Algeria in the first leg of their Africa Women's Cup of Nations Qualifier at Orlando Stadium on Friday afternoon.
Banyana enjoyed the backing of the big guns such as goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, Noko Matlou, Refiloe Jane, Linda Motlhalo and Thembi Kgatlana.
Algeria were on the back-foot following the opening exchanges and were unfortunate not to trail as Banyana missed a few clever chances to go in front and take the lead.
Following their dominant start, the South African women's national team took the lead just before halftime courtesy of Hildah Magaia.
Desiree Ellis's side continued to dominate following the start of the second half, as the North Africans searched a way back into the contest.
Substitutions from the South Africans inside the middle of the second period saw Thalea Smidt introduced for Kholosa Biyana and Sibulele Holweni recalled for Nomvula Kgoale.
Banyana kept plugging away closer to the final minutes and continued to found chances which they yet again failed to make the most of as the balance of play remained tight.
However, the home outfit finally amplified their commanding display with a minute to go when Kgatlana fired in the second.
Banyana successfully managed to run down the closing minutes of play and picked up the win ahead of the return-leg in a weeks time.
