It was late drama in Casablanca on Monday night as Linda Motlhalo converted a 90th-minute penalty to earn South Africa a 1-0 win over the Copper Queens of Zambia.

Banyana were awarded the spot-kick after the intervention of the VAR (Video Assistant Referee). Some may be of the view that the penalty decision was dubious and South Africa were indeed fortunate to earn the scoring opportunity.

Motlhalo made no mistake in scoring the winning goal for South Africa.

Banyana coach Desiree Ellis felt that as a team they were in control of the game and it was important to convert the scoring opportunity when it came their way.

“We were always in control at the back and the defence was magnificent. I said that if we keep a clean sheet, we will create opportunities.

“We wanted to be more in control and stay compact in the back in the second half while also having more movement up front.

“Zambia showed true quality but we wanted it in the end. They tried to play the long ball behind us and we created chances. The victory is important as we are in the final.

“Our two objectives were to qualify for the World Cup and get to the final. We know that many have been in this position and we want to go one better. It is a big celebration now for those that have been with us for two successive World Cups.

In Monday night’s second semi-final, the host Morocco knocked out the defending champions, the Super Falcons of Nigeria, in a penalty shootout. Morocco won the semi-finals 5-4 on penalties after the game ended in a 1-1 deadlock after added extra time.

Morocco and South Africa will battle it out on Sunday evening at Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah. The final in Rabat kicks off at 23:00.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport