sportskeeda
Banyana Banyana suffered a loss in their second international friendly against Jamaica, falling 2-3 in a thrilling five-goal encounter in Montego Bay on Monday evening.
The away matches against Jamaica marked the end of the year for coach Desiree Ellis’ team as they prepare to defend their title in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) set for next year.
The Sasol-supported South African Senior Women’s National Team took a quick lead when Linda Motlhalo scored after a collaborative effort in the 19th minute. The visitors dominated the first half, heading into halftime with a 1-0 lead.
The South African defense effectively managed to keep Jamaican star Khadija Shaw at bay for the majority of the match, with the Reggae Girlz only leveling the score in the 58th minute after Shaw’s substitution.
Vyan Sampson found the net for the equalizer after a chaotic moment in the Banyana Banyana box. Jamaica then took the lead with a second goal in the 63rd minute, netted by Drew Spence.
The Reggae Girlz increased their advantage to 3-1 in the 76th minute when McKenna took advantage of a defensive blunder by the visitors.
In stoppage time, Amogelang Motau capitalized on a mistake by the Jamaican goalkeeper to score for the visitors, reducing the deficit.
“We executed our game plan effectively, and even in the absence of a striker due to last-minute changes, I believe the players did exceptionally well today,” remarked Dr. Ellis.
“We expected Jamaica to be physical and aggressive, but we tailored our tactics for this match. Our players maintained team structure, controlled the offensive play, and our defenders performed brilliantly despite conceding goals.”
Banyana Banyana will begin their lengthy journey back to South Africa on Tuesday afternoon, with an expected arrival in the country by Thursday evening.
