3 June 2025 – Banyana Banyana wrapped up the #ThreeNations Challenge in style on Tuesday afternoon, defeating Zambia 2–0 at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville in a tightly contested and often physical clash between the two regional neighbours.
After a goalless first half, the Sasol-sponsored South African senior women’s national team stepped up the intensity in the second half, with Bongeka Gamede breaking the deadlock in the 74th minute with a stunning free kick, her first goal for coach Dr Desiree’s Ellis’ side. The momentum stayed with Banyana Banyana and Jermaine Seoposenwe doubled the lead in the 82nd minute to secure the win and the tournament title.
Gamede, whose standout goal shifted the momentum of the match, was proud of the team’s approach to neutralising Zambia’s strengths.
“I think we played well,” she said. “We knew their strengths and how to capitalise on that. We tried to make sure they didn’t attack us as much as possible.”
Reflecting on the performance, Dr Ellis commended her players for sticking to the plan while also highlighting areas the team still needs to improve on as they prepare for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco in July.
“Today, this was a true team effort. We stuck to the game plan, we denied them space, and we moved the ball around quickly,” said Dr Ellis. “We still have a lot of work to do. There were moments where Zambia got behind us, and we need to get better at that. Especially in the middle of the park, we gave the ball away unnecessarily.”
Zambia, who came into the fixture after a 1–1 draw with Botswana a few days ago, posed a tough test for Banyana Banyana throughout the game. Their coach, Nora Häuptle, admitted that her side struggled to convert key moments into goals.
“There were some good actions and also some bad actions,” said Häuptle. “We didn’t have enough players in the box when it mattered, and today, our top players were not at their best and that can happen.”
With two wins from two games in the series, including a 3–2 victory over Botswana, Banyana Banyana now shift focus to WAFCON 2025, carrying with them momentum and valuable match experience.
SOURCED FROM SAFA WEBSITE.