Whereas the scoreboard mirrored South Africa’s scientific edge, it did not absolutely seize the competitiveness of the encounter
Ghana’s Black Queens will head into their second Group C fixture at WAFCON 2024 with mounting strain, following a 2-0 defeat to reigning champions South Africa of their match opener.
Regardless of a spirited efficiency and several other missed probabilities, the end result leaves Kim Lars Björkegren’s facet in pressing want of a response as they put together for a vital West African derby in opposition to Mali — a match that might outline their possibilities of advancing to the knockout stage.
The loss, suffered in Oujda, Morocco, marked a troublesome begin for Ghana below their Swedish coach appointed barely six months in the past.
Whereas the scoreboard mirrored South Africa’s scientific edge, it did not absolutely seize the competitiveness of the encounter.
Ghana created extra probabilities, hit the crossbar twice, and registered extra pictures on the right track than their opponents — however finally did not make their dominance rely.
“I am disillusioned with the end result,” Björkegren mentioned post-match. “We performed nicely, created sufficient probabilities, had 13 pictures, and hit the put up twice. We simply weren’t scientific. They scored, and we didn’t–that’s soccer.”
Banyana Banyana, led by the skilled Desiree Ellis, took their probabilities with calm precision. Jermaine Seoposenwe opened the scoring within the first half earlier than Linda Motlhalo sealed the win from the penalty spot within the second.
It was a historic win for South Africa, their first-ever WAFCON group-stage match scoring greater than as soon as in opposition to Ghana, and it prolonged their unbeaten run in open play on the match to 12 matches below Ellis.
“We caught to the sport plan rather well,” Ellis mentioned throughout her put up match presser. “In the event you take a look at the probabilities, it was in all probability even. Andile (Dlamini) made a few saves, they hit the crossbar. We might have gone 3-0 and even 4-0 up. We’re proud of the end result.”
Regardless of trailing for many of the match, Ghana by no means regarded out of competition. Veterans Evelyn Badu and Alice Kusi each got here agonisingly shut, rattling the woodwork with highly effective strikes.
The Black Queens ended the match with 5 pictures on the right track to South Africa’s 4, loved 45% possession, and had 4 corners to their opponent’s one — encouraging numbers for a crew in transition.
“Sure, the penalty modified the sport, however we got here again robust. We had good spells in each halves,” Björkegren added, remaining optimistic in regards to the crew’s trajectory.
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Now, the main target shifts to Friday’s match in opposition to Mali in Berkane. The stakes are excessive — with a loss doubtlessly ending Ghana’s WAFCON marketing campaign on the group stage for the second match in a row.
The derby additionally brings added emotional weight and tactical pressure, as each West African sides know one another nicely and are vying for redemption after inconsistent showings in latest editions.
For Björkegren, the Mali conflict presents a chance to show potential into factors.
The Swedish tactician, identified for his methodical fashion and emphasis on structured attacking play, can be hoping for sharper ending and higher luck in entrance of purpose.
South Africa, in the meantime, sit comfortably on the prime of Group C, persevering with their quest for a second consecutive continental title.
Coach Ellis — ever composed, ever pushed — credited her crew’s self-discipline and unity, whereas urging them to maintain constructing momentum.
“There’s nonetheless room to enhance,” Ellis famous. “However I am actually pleased with how the gamers executed the plan. Ramalepe as a winger did nicely, Cesane too, despite the fact that she performed out of place. The clear sheet speaks volumes.”
Because the match progresses, Ghana’s response to this early adversity might form the remainder of their WAFCON journey. The expertise is there. The possibilities are being created. But when they’re to actually problem for a spot within the knockout rounds — and ultimately the title — the outcomes should now comply with.
Friday’s conflict in opposition to Mali is not only a recreation. It is a take a look at of resolve, character, and whether or not this technology of Black Queens can rise to the event when it issues most.
