A winning start in Polokwane
Banyana Banyana opened their 2026 COSAFA Women’s Championship on a positive note, beating Malawi 2-0 at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. It was the kind of match that reminded fans why South Africa’s women’s team continues to command respect across the continent, even when navigating a period of squad rebuilding.
The Limpopo heat was unforgiving and the atmosphere was thick, but the home side settled into their rhythm when it mattered most. After a cagey first half where neither team found clear openings, the match shifted decisively in the final 45 minutes.
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Goals that turned the game
South Africa broke Malawi’s resistance through Sibulele Holweni, who found the opener that instantly lifted the tempo and confidence of the young side. As the clock ticked down, Bonolo Mokoma added a second deep into the 90th minute, sealing a deserved victory and giving Banyana early momentum in the tournament.
For a squad featuring several new faces, it was a reassuring display of patience, structure and belief.
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Desiree Ellis praises perseverance
Head coach Desiree Ellis acknowledged that the match wasn’t always smooth, but credited her players for grinding through the challenge.
She noted that the first half showed moments of disconnect, which was expected from a new-look group still finding chemistry. But the team’s perseverance and tactical discipline stood out, especially against Malawi’s long-ball approach.
Ellis also applauded her players for enduring the intense Polokwane heat, pointing out that the conditions were far from what they’re used to. The ability to push through and finish strongly, she said, speaks to the squad’s resilience.
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Why this win matters
Beyond the scoreline, this opening victory sets the tone for South Africa’s campaign. It gives Ellis the breathing room to continue blending new talent with experienced leaders, while also keeping supporters optimistic about Banyana’s evolution ahead of future international commitments.
It also reinforces the team’s consistency at the COSAFA Cup, a tournament where Banyana have historically performed well and used as a development platform for rising stars.
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Source: SABC News
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