After a splendid FIFA Women’s World Cup opener, Banyana Banyana have shifted their focus on their next challenge as they gear up to face Argentina on Friday, 28 July at 02h00am CAT.
Head coach, Desiree Ellis, is getting her team ready for a crucial Women’s World Cup match, knowing that a win could significantly boost their chances of advancing to the next stage.
The upcoming game is a do-or-die situation for the South African team, as a victory would keep their hopes alive at the global showpiece.
“After such a magnificent performance I think, against Sweden we take a lot of positives out of that. I think we were defensively very sound, not until right at the end but we also created many opportunities and going into this game against Argentina it’s a must win.
“It’s a game that we mustn’t only win but we must also score goals to give us at least a chance in the last match and like we’ve analysed them, I’m sure they’ve analysed us.”
Despite suffering a narrow 2-1 loss to Sweden, ranked No 3 in the world with a heartbreaking goal conceded in the 90th minute, Ellis believes her team showcased enough potential in that match to instil confidence for the upcoming encounter against Argentina. The performance against such a formidable opponent has undoubtedly provided the players with valuable lessons and motivation to give their best shot in the forthcoming match.
“We know a lot about Argentina, we saw the game against Italy it was very physical so obviously we have to move the ball around quicker. They do have players that are very skilful, but we know that a lot of our goals are scored on the counter attack and that is one of our strengths. If we can get that right, we will score goals tomorrow.
“It’s not going to be an easy game, we know Argentina is a good side. We saw that against Italy but if we play our own game and we create the chances and put them away, we will get a positive result.”
With the high-stakes game looming, Banyana Banyana is determined to capitalise on the opportunity and deliver an exceptional performance, fully aware of the mental and physical preparation needed to succeed on the field.
Photo 1 Caption: After a splendid FIFA Women’s World Cup opener, Banyana Banyana have shifted their focus on their next challenge as they gear up to face Argentina on Friday, 28 July at 02h00am CAT. Photo: Banyana Banyana (Instagram)
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