African queens at war: South Africa respond to Nigeria’s warning with bold start to WAFCON defence

South Africa made a powerful statement in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence with a confident 2-0 victory over Ghana, responding emphatically to Nigeria’s earlier dismantling of Tunisia, Soccernet.ng reports. 

A day after the Super Falcons sent a clear message by thrashing Tunisia 3-0 in their Group A opener, Desiree Ellis’ Banyana Banyana displayed their own credentials with a composed win in Oujda.

Goals from Linda Motlhalo and Jermaine Seoposenwe secured the three points in Group C and ensured the defending champions began their campaign on the front foot.

Despite reports of internal unrest regarding unpaid bonuses and the absence of star forward Thembi Kgatlana, South Africa showed no signs of distraction.

Motlhalo opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 28th minute after a VAR review adjudged Grace Asantewaa to have fouled Noxolo Cesane in the box.

Moments later, Seoposenwe doubled the advantage with a neat finish after a well-weighted through ball from Lebogang Ramalepe.

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⚽️ ⒼⓄⒶⓁ: Jermaine Seoposenwe has doubled Banyana Banyana's lead!

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The experienced striker, who has announced plans to retire after the tournament, reminded fans of her quality with a composed strike that left Ghana goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan rooted.

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• Why Rasheedat Ajibade’s leadership is crucial for the Super Falcons at the WAFCON

Ghana showed more attacking intent in the second half and came close on multiple occasions. Alice Kusi struck the post with a powerful long-range effort, while Evelyn Badu's header also hit the woodwork late on. Substitute Princess Marfo forced a save from South Africa’s Andile Dlamini as the Black Queens fought to find a route back into the game.

However, South Africa held firm and sealed an important win that puts them atop Group C ahead of Mali and Tanzania’s encounter later in the day.

Nigeria, meanwhile, remain equally confident after their victory over Tunisia — powered by goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and Chinwendu Ihezuo. The Super Falcons face Botswana next, who fell 1-0 to Algeria.

With both giants staking their claims early on, the race for WAFCON supremacy is already shaping into a thrilling duel between Nigeria and South Africa — two continental heavyweights eyeing glory in Morocco.