Stephen Dunmoye
Bayana Bayana of South Africa kicked start their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence with an impressive 2-0 win over Ghana in their opening Group C clash in Morocco.
Reigning champion broke the deadlock in the 28th minute with Linda Motlhalo spot kick.
The midfielder calmly converted from the penalty spot after a VAR review confirmed Noxolo Cesane had been brought down by Grace Asantewaa inside the box.
Banyana Banyana doubled their advantage just six minutes later, with Jermaine Seoposenwe slotting home a composed finish after a well-timed pass from Lebogang Ramalepe.
Ghana came close to pulling one back in the second half, striking the woodwork twice through Alice Kusi’s powerful effort from distance and Evelyn Badu’s header, but they failed to find a breakthrough.
The victory sees South Africa take an early lead in Group C ahead of the group’s other fixture between Mali and Tanzania later on Monday in Berkane.
