Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has voiced concern over her team’s limited recovery time ahead of their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final showdown against Nigeria’s Super Falcons.
South Africa, the reigning champions, secured a hard-fought victory over Senegal on Saturday night, winning 4-1 on penalties after a goalless draw through 120 minutes of intense football.
In contrast, Nigeria defeated Zambia’s Copper Queens on Friday, giving the Super Falcons an extra day to rest and prepare for the high-stakes semi-final.
Speaking to Sowetan Live, Ellis admitted the demanding schedule could pose a challenge for her players.
“We are going to prepare, but 120 minutes with a day less to recover and a day to travel takes a lot,” she said.
The South African team now faces a tight turnaround as they travel and regroup for the much-anticipated clash with Nigeria, a perennial rival and record WAFCON champions.
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