Banyana Banyana book World Cup spot with Afcon win over Mali

South Africa’s senior women’s national soccer team, Banyana Banyan beat Mali 2-0 in the Africa Women Cup of Nations semi-final to book their ticket to France for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Banyana only needed to qualify for the final to secure a spot in the global showpiece event for the first time in their history, and will play Nigeria for top honours in the continent this coming Saturday.

Desiree Ellis’ charges went into the semis unbeaten, having only conceded twice in the group stages, scoring nine goals on their way to winning two and drawing a dead-rubber against Zambia.

It’s all over! Mission accomplished! @Banyana_Banyana is going to the @FIFAWWC for the 1st time ever. History in the making @SAFA_net @SAFA_net @SasolLeague @SasolSA

— Banyana_Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) November 27, 2018

They took the lead just after the half-hour mark through the tournament’s leading goal-scorer Thembi Kgatlane, who scored her fifth goal in four matches to put her side ahead.

The contest remained alive for a further 50 minutes until Lebohang Ramalepe doubled the lead, putting some distance between the two teams.

Banyana held on in the closing stages of the encounter, ensuring their passage through to the final and edging one step closer to their first continental title.

World Cup bound ✈️ @FIFAWWC @CAF_Online pic.twitter.com/9BsAECfDUC

— SAFA.net (@SAFA_net) November 27, 2018

No words can describe my emotions right now. Thank you to EVERYONE for the most amazing support & for believing in this team! WE HAVE DONE IT! WE HAVE MADE HISTORY! WE ARE @Banyana_Banyana ???????? Now we going for that Gold Medal ???? #AWCON2018
YESSSSSSSSSSSS ???????????? pic.twitter.com/6Q6YRJtgSr— Janine Van Wyk (@Janinevanwyk5) November 27, 2018