Despite a convincing 4-0 victory over Madagascar in the first leg of the second round of Olympic qualifying, Banyana Banyana midfielder Linda Motlhalo believes the team still has plenty to improve.
Ronnel Donnelly scored her first international hat-trick, while veteran striker Hildah Magaia also found the net as South Africa secured a commanding advantage at Free State Stadium on Friday.
The match was played behind closed doors after Madagascar, the designated hosts, requested that no spectators be admitted. Madagascar had moved the fixture to South Africa because they do not have venues accredited by CAF.
The return leg will be held at the same stadium on Tuesday at 18:00, although supporters will be permitted to attend because it is now Banyana Banyana’s home match.
“It was a really good job from the ladies, but we hold ourselves to high standards, so I think in terms of how we played, we can improve,” Motlhalo said.
“There’s still a lot of work to be done but I am happy that we won the first leg.”
Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis selected a youthful starting XI for the opening match, with established players including Thembi Kgatlana and Amogelang Motau beginning among the substitutes.
Motlhalo welcomed Ellis’ decision to introduce younger players and highlighted the value of giving them competitive experience.
“This is what we want, a mixture of new and old players so that new players can get experience,” she said. “It’s good seeing them getting some minutes.”
The third qualifying round is scheduled for February/March next year and will involve the 16 teams remaining in the competition. The fourth round is due to take place in October next year, with the final phase scheduled for the following month.
Only two African nations will qualify for the 2028 Olympics, which will be held in Los Angeles from 11-29 July.
Banyana Banyana are seeking a return to the Olympic Games for the first time since 2016, when they made their second appearance at the tournament in Rio. Their Olympic debut came in London in 2012.
