Banyana Banyana, South Africa’s senior women’s national football team, clinched the #ThreeNations Challenge title on Tuesday afternoon with a commanding 2–0 win over Zambia at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.
The tightly contested encounter remained goalless at halftime, but the Sasol-sponsored side turned up the pressure in the second half, dominating both possession and physical exchanges. The breakthrough came in the 74th minute, when Bongeka Gamede stepped up with a brilliant free kick, scoring her first goal for the national team under head coach Dr Desiree Ellis.
“We knew their strengths and how to capitalise on that,” said Gamede. “We tried to make sure they didn’t attack us as much as possible.”
Just eight minutes later, Jermaine Seoposenwe doubled Banyana’s lead with a composed finish, putting the result beyond doubt and confirming their position as tournament champions with two wins from two matches, following their earlier 3–2 win over Botswana.
A Team Effort with an Eye on WAFCON
Coach Dr Ellis praised her squad’s discipline and execution of the match plan while pointing out areas that still need attention ahead of WAFCON 2025, which kicks off in July in Morocco.
“This was a true team effort. We stuck to the game plan, denied them space, and moved the ball quickly,” said Ellis. “But we still have work to do. Zambia got behind us at times, and in the middle, we gave away the ball too easily.”
Zambia Showed Grit, But Missed Chances
Zambia, who had drawn 1–1 with Botswana in their previous match, pushed Banyana hard, but failed to convert chances. Coach Nora Häuptle admitted her side fell short in key attacking moments.
“We didn’t have enough players in the box when it mattered,” said Häuptle. “Some of our top players were not at their best today — and that can happen.”
Momentum Building Ahead of Morocco
With the #ThreeNations Challenge trophy secured, Banyana Banyana now turn their attention to WAFCON 2025. The confidence gained from these performances will prove vital as the team aims to defend their continental crown and fine-tune tactical sharpness.
