Reigning champions South Africa sent a strong message to their WAFCON 2024 rivals with a commanding 4–0 victory over Mali, securing top spot in Group C and booking their place in the quarter-finals in emphatic style.
Banyana Banyana wasted no time asserting their dominance at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, with Lebohang Ramalepe opening the scoring in the 5th minute.
The right-back finished neatly into the top right corner, setting the tone for a one-sided affair.
South Africa continued to dictate play and doubled their lead in the 32nd minute when captain Refiloe Jane curled a sublime free kick into the top left corner, giving Malian goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao no chance.
Desiree Ellis’ side maintained their attacking rhythm after the break, and Hildah Magaia made it 3–0 in the 61st minute, calmly slotting home after a well-weighted through ball from Karabo Dhlamini.
Substitute Ronnel Donnelly completed the rout in the 79th minute, finishing from close range after a precise cut-back from Nonhlanhla Mthandi.
Despite occasional threats from Mali, including efforts from Saratou Traoré, Aïssata Traoré, and Fatou Dembele, South Africa’s defence held firm.
Goalkeeper Andile Dlamini delivered a confident performance between the sticks, making crucial saves to keep a clean sheet.
The result means South Africa finish as Group C leaders, continuing their unbeaten run and underlining their credentials as favourites to retain their title.
With momentum firmly on their side, Banyana Banyana march into the knockout stages brimming with confidence and eyeing another historic WAFCON triumph.