Ellis challenges Banyana Banyana to improve defensively against Zambia

Photo Credit - Banyana Banyana.

Banyana Banyana head coach Dr Desiree Ellis has promised a different approach when they take on Zambia in their FIFA international friendly in the ongoing three-nation series at Lucas “Masterpieces” Moripe Stadium on Tuesday.

The South African women's national team will come into the match following a spirited 3-2 win over Botswana last week, while Zambia were held to a 1-1 draw by the same side this past weekend, setting the stage for a competitive and decisive finale in the tri-nation tournament.

“When you play different opponents, you plan differently. We know they’re going to bring a lot of things that we need to be better at. We also know that they’re going to challenge us in a different way than Botswana did, but we need to be better defensively,” Ellis told SAFA website ahead of the fixture.

“The two goals that we gave away (against Botswana), we could’ve handled those situations better. We’re looking for an improved performance in all areas – better on the ball, better organized, creating more chances.”

A trophy will be up for grabs for the winner of the three-nation series that has provided an important international window for hosts South Africa, Zambia and Botswana to test their strength ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in July.