Banyana Banyana survived a scare from Botswana to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory in a friendly match at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday.
Coach Desiree Ellis made a number of changes to her squad as she looks at her players ahead of the delayed 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations set to take place in Morocco in July.
Captain Refilwe Jane made her long-awaited return, having been out for more than a year, with Bambanani Mbane and Karabo Dhlamini also back to the fold as South Africa started well.
Banyana score three early goals
Banyana Banyana took 13 minutes to make their presence felt when Fikile Magama’s corner found Amogelang Motau and she teed up Jermaine Seoposenwe.
Seoposenwe had her effort saved by the Botswana goalkeeper but from the rebound, Mibe slotted home to break the deadlock.
It took just three minutes for the home side to extend their lead as Kgaelebane Mohlakoana found Seoposenwe and she effortlessly tapped home.
South Africa were celebrating the third goal by the 36th minute when Seoposenwe capitalised on a poor clearance from the Botswana goalkeeper.
Botswana threaten memorable comeback
However, hopes of Banyana Banyana going to the break leading 3-0 went up in smoke when Botswana pulled one back on the stroke of halftime when Lesego Radiakanyo slotted home after being put through by goalkeeper Sedilame Boseja.
After the break, Botswana scored their second goal through Laone Moloi who had been teed up by Ontlametsi Gaonyadiwe in the 63rd minute.
That goal woke up Banyana Banyana as their lack of concentration was nearly punished with Botswana threatening to complete the comeback.
While they won, it was a wakeup call to the African champions as they prepare to defend their title in Morocco with a clash against Zambia up next on Tuesday.
