South Africa book place at 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations

admin November 21, 2023

South Africa book place at 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations

International
December 6, 2023
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South Africa win the Women's Africa Cup of Nations trophy after beating Morocco 2-1 in the final in July 2022 — South Africa lifted the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy for the first time in 2022, having previously lost four times in the final

Holders South Africa qualified for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 home win over Burkina Faso in the second leg of their second qualifying round tie.

Having drawn the first leg 1-1 in Yamoussoukro on Thursday, Linda Motlhalo’s 55th-minute penalty put Banyana Banyana ahead on aggregate in Pretoria.

Nicole Michael wrapped up victory with four minutes remaining as Desiree Ellis’ side became the second country to confirm their place at next year’s tournament after hosts Morocco.

The North Africans will host the 12-team Women’s Nations Cup for the second time in a row, with the dates for the finals yet to be announced.

South Africa won their first continental title in July last year, beating Morocco 2-1 in the final.

Banyana Banyana captain Janine van Wyk won her 185th cap against Burkina Faso – surpassing Egypt midfielder Ahmed Hassan to set a new record for the most international appearances by an African (male or female) – in what was her final match before retiring from South Africa duty aged 36.

The defender, who made her debut against Nigeria in 2005, started against the Burkinabe but was substituted after just seven minutes in a tactical change.

“I am deeply grateful to all those who helped me during my long career. I could not have achieved this amazing feat without the help of many others,” she told AFP.

“It is important for senior players like me to accept that younger players are seeking selection. We must develop them, make them feel at home, then we must step aside.”

Algeria travel to Burundi in qualifying later on Monday, with the North Africans holding a 5-1 advantage from the first leg last week.

The final nine qualifiers are scheduled to be played on Tuesday, with record nine-time Nations Cup champions Nigeria taking a 5-0 lead into the second leg of their tie against Cape Verde.