The South African women’s team put up a spirited performance as they wrapped up their international fixtures for 2024, preparing to defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title next year.

Linda Motlhalo gave the visitors an early advantage, converting a well-worked team goal in the 19th minute. Banyana Banyana controlled much of the first half, showcasing strong defensive and midfield coordination, and carried a 1-0 lead into halftime.

Khadija Shaw and Linda Motlhalo. Photo: X

The South African defence stood firm against Jamaica’s star forward, Khadija Shaw, effectively neutralising her threat for most of the game. However, the match turned after Shaw was substituted, as the Reggae Girlz ramped up their attack.

In the 58th minute, Vyan Sampson, took advantage of a lapse in concentration in the South African penalty area to score the equaliser. Just five minutes later, Drew Spence struck to give Jamaica a 2-1 lead. The hosts extended their advantage in the 76th minute, with McKenna punishing a defensive lapse to make it 3-1.

‘It was too little, too late for the Champions of Africa’

Amogelang Motau pulled one back for Banyana in stoppage time, seizing on a rare error by the Jamaican goalkeeper, but it was too little, too late for the Champions of Africa.

Reflecting on the match, coach Desiree Ellis praised her team’s resilience and adaptability despite the absence of a traditional striker due to last-minute lineup changes.

“We played the way we wanted to, and I believe the players performed admirably under the circumstances. Jamaica’s physicality was anticipated, and we adjusted our tactics accordingly,” said Ellis.

“Our team shape was maintained, we dominated up front at times, and the defence showed commendable effort despite the goals conceded.”

With their international commitments for the year completed, Banyana will begin their long journey back to South Africa on Tuesday. They are expected to arrive home on Thursday evening.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg