Brave hearts fall fighting: Ellis salutes Banyana's grit after Wafcon semifinal loss

Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has paid a heartfelt tribute to her players after their spirited run at the 2024 Caf Women’s Africa Cup of Nations came to an end with a 2-1 semifinal defeat to Nigeria.

Despite relinquishing their crown as continental champions, Ellis praised the bravery and resilience of her side, who came into the clash battle-weary yet undeterred after a gruelling 120-minute epic and penalty shootout against Senegal in the quarterfinals.

On Tuesday night, under the floodlights of Casablanca’s Larbi Zaouli Stadium, South Africa went toe-to-toe with the record-holding Super Falcons but fell just short. Goals from Nigerian captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie sealed the win for the West Africans, while Linda Motlhalo kept Banyana in the fight with a well-taken penalty.

The defeat brought an end to Banyana's impressive 15-match unbeaten run in open play at Wafcon - every match under the watchful eye and guiding hand of Ellis.

A turning point came late in the second half after Gabby Salgado was stretchered off following a lengthy medical stoppage. Her replacement, Sibulele Holweni, stepped in, but Nigeria capitalised in the aftermath. While South Africa held 54.5 per cent of possession and completed 100 more passes than their opponents (266 to 166), the final scoreline favoured the Falcons.

'WE SHOWED CHARACTER AND INTENT'

“We had chances - Jermaine was through, Hilda was through, Nox was through. We didn’t look like a team that had played 120 minutes days ago,” Ellis reflected. “We matched Nigeria blow for blow. We showed character and intent, but in the end, they found the goals and that made the difference.”

Her pride in the squad was unwavering: “After Gabby’s injury, we struggled to regain momentum. I’m not sure how serious it is yet, but it clearly disrupted us. Credit to Nigeria, they stayed focused. We wish them well in the final.”

Nigeria will face hosts Morocco in Rabat on Saturday, while South Africa stay behind in Casablanca for the bronze-medal showdown against Ghana, who were edged out by Morocco on penalties.

Ellis insisted the third-place match means far more than just a consolation prize.

“We came to defend our title and create history. That didn’t happen, but there’s still something to fight for. We want to win that medal, for Gabby, who’s going home injured, and for ourselves. It’s not just a playoff, it’s a chance to leave with pride and purpose.”

Meanwhile, midfielder Amogelang Motau has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament. She picked up an injury against Senegal and missed the semifinal, but will stay on with the team through the closing stages.