Banyana Banyana's hopes qualifying for the 2024 Olympics came to an end after a goalless draw against Nigeria in the second leg of their final qualifying round.
2024 Olympic Qualifier
Result: South Africa 0-0 Nigeria (0-1 aggregate)
Date: 09 April 2024
Venue: Loftus Versfeld
The African champions came into the second leg knowing anything less than a victory would end their Olympic hopes after losing 1-0 to the Super Falcons in Nigeria four days ago.
The second leg was a special occasion for Lebohang Ramalepe who was making her 100th appearance for the national side, while Sinoxolo Cesane was back in the starting line-up after missing the first leg.
The Super Falcons lasted secured victory on South African soil in 2010 during the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, but they did not need a victory to seal their Olympic ticket this time around.
The first half failed to provided any clear-cut openings at both ends, although the possession was evenly distributed for most parts of the opening 45 minutes.
As a result, Banyana coach Desiree Ellis made a double change five minutes after the halftime break, with Noxolo Cesane and Nomvula Kgoale coming off for Sinoxolo Cesane and Hildah Magaia.
The changes did not have the desired effect on the encounter, as Banyana found it tough to carve out any serious openings at the Nigerian goal in the latter stages of the second half.
As a result, the goalless draw was enough to see the Super Falcons book their spot at the Olympic Games with a 1-0 aggregate win over two legs.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments
