Desiree Ellis, the coach of South Africa's women's national football team, has delivered a strong cautionary message before their imminent final playoff encounter against Nigeria's Super Falcons.
Ellis made this statement after her Banyana Banyana side secured a 4-0 aggregate victory over Tanzania, setting the stage for a showdown with Nigeria's Super Falcons in the final round of qualifiers for the Summer Olympics.
On the other hand, the Super Falcons secured a 1-0 aggregate victory over the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon to progress to the next stage.
Ellis, who was honoured as the CAF Coach of the Year, conveyed her team's commitment to thorough preparation for the upcoming match against the nine-time African champions.
What did Ellis say about Nigeria vs South Africa?
Desiree Ellis emphasised the critical nature of their upcoming match against Nigeria.
With a determination to secure victory, she outlined her plans for early and comprehensive preparation, recognising the importance of readiness for the challenge ahead.
“It will be do or die [against Nigeria],” she said, highlighting the significance of the encounter. “We want to have an early camp, we will improve our chances when we prepare early and very well,” she gushed.
How Banyana Banyana matched up with the Super Falcons in the past
Banyana Banyana and the Super Falcons have faced off a total of nine times. The Super Falcons have emerged victorious in three matches, while Banyana Banyana have also won three, with the remaining three ending in stalemates.
Across these encounters, a total of 17 goals have been scored, with Nigeria netting eight and South Africa scoring nine.
The most significant victory between the two teams was secured by Banyana Banyana, who triumphed 2-1 over the Super Falcons at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2022) in July 2022.
Banyana Banyana came out on top the last two times these teams met. They also have three wins in their last four skirmishes with the Super Falcons
Notably, the two sides have not crossed paths since July 4, 2022.
Super Falcons' last five matches
The Super Falcons maintain an unbeaten streak in their recent five matches, securing four victories and one draw. Throughout this impressive run, they've netted a total of 12 goals while conceding just once.
Among their opponents in this stretch are Ethiopia, Cape Verde, and Cameroon.
Banyana Banyana's last five matches
In like manner, Banyana Banyana have clinched victory in four matches, accompanied by one draw.
Their offensive prowess is evident with a total of nine goals scored while conceding just once.
Notable opponents during this period include DR Congo, Burkina Faso, and Tanzania.
When are the Super Falcons vs Banyana Banyana games scheduled?
The first leg between the Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana is set to take place on April 1, 2024, with the Super Falcons hosting the match. The reverse fixture is scheduled to be held in South Africa on April 9.
