Banyana return with vital away goal

Banyana Banyana have one foot in the 2018 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations in Ghana following their 1-0 win over Lesotho in the firstleg of their final qualifying match played at Setsotso Stadium in Maseru yesterday.

It has been a hard couple of days of work for coach Desiree Ellis and her charges, who put a lot of faith in local-based players for this crucial encounter.

The players were able to justify the faith shown in them, with veteran winger Leandra Smeda (pictured) getting the goal for the visiting side just nine minutes into the match.

Smeda could have had a brace four minutes later, but the winger’s header went over the bar.

The home side went all out in search of an equaliser with captain Boitumelo Rabale’s shot attempt shortly before half-time being confidently saved by Banyana goalkeeper Roxanne Barker.

Lesotho continued to press hard for an equaliser after the break, but Banyana stood firm and even looked good for a second goal.

Ellis brought on the exciting Chantelle Essau and Gabriela Salgado, who was making her debut for the senior national team.

In the 73rd minute, Jermaine Seoposenwe hit a good shot on target, but Lesotho keeper Thuto Maifo was able to make a good save to deny the striker and give Lesotho a glimmer of hope.

Banyana will cherish their vital away goal going into the return leg at Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein on Sunday.