Banyana Banyana's fate hangs in the balance as they face Mali for WAFCON quarter-final spot
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Banyana Banyana will go into their final Group C match against Mali at the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Monday knowing that their title defence could hinge on this one result.
South Africa currently top the group on goal difference, but they are level on four points with Mali and have not yet secured a place in the quarter-finals.
A win against Tanzania in their previous outing would have booked their place in the knockout stages with a game to spare, but a disappointing 1-1 draw means the final group clash will determine who goes through — and in what position.
Head coach Desiree Ellis is aware that the pressure is now firmly on her side to deliver.
'We know what's at stake,' she said after the Tanzania game. 'We didn't take our chances and dropped points that we shouldn't have. Now we have to go out and get the job done against Mali.'
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The reigning champions began the tournament with a clinical 2-0 win over Ghana, showcasing their tactical discipline and efficiency in front of goal.
But the lack of killer instinct in front of goal against Tanzania has raised concerns. Banyana created numerous opportunities but failed to convert, and their defensive lapse late in the game proved costly.
Still, the group remains in their hands.
Mali, on the other hand, responded well to their opening draw against Tanzania by edging Ghana 1-0 in their second game. That result has thrown the group wide open, with all four teams still mathematically in contention.
However, victory for either Banyana or Mali would guarantee a place in the quarter-finals, while a draw could still be enough for South Africa depending on the other result. Banyana will rely heavily on the experience of Linda Motlhalo and Jermaine Seoposenwe to lead the line.
You can always trust Andile Dlamini to come to the rescue… pic.twitter.com/BhqBsn7qbo — Banyana_Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) July 7, 2025
Both players have been among the most influential in the group, and their creativity and composure will be vital in breaking down Mali's physical and direct approach.
Amogelang Motau is expected to start in midfield alongside captain Refiloe Jane, offering balance, energy and distribution. Meanwhile, in goal, Andile Dlamini is likely to return to the starting eleven after questions were raised over Kaylin Swart's positioning during Tanzania's equaliser.
The switch could prove decisive, especially in a match where small margins may determine the outcome.
Mali are known for their athleticism and never-say-die attitude, and they will see this clash as a rare opportunity to advance to the latter stages of WAFCON.
For South Africa, it's as much about pride as it is about points — and a strong finish could not only secure qualification but help avoid a tougher opponent in the next round. Thembi Kgatlana remains absent from the squad due to personal reasons, and her absence continues to be felt. But Ellis has backed her team to step up in her absence.
With everything to play for and no margin for error, Banyana must now prove why they are still the reigning champions of the continent.
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