Complexe Sportif Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco, was a place of jubilation for the South African delegation on Monday, 18 July, as the Sasol Sponsored Banyana Banyana beat Zambia’s Copper Queens in the nail-biting Semi-final of the African Women Cup of Nations (AWCON 2022).
The fast-paced match displayed hunger, passion and the determination of both teams to score and secure a place in the AWCON 2022 final. The penalty awarded to Banyana Banyana in the 90th minute following a tense VAR confirmation moment provided the South African side with much-needed relief when Linda Motlhalo put the ball safely behind the net.
Sasol’s Senior Manager: Group Sponsorship and Brand, Nozipho Mbatha congratulated the team for their sterling performance. “It is amazing what is achievable through hard work”, Mbatha said, adding that the team’s performance to date is the sincerest manifestation of the #LiveTheImpossible attitude. “As Sasol, we have always believed in the capabilities of Banyana Banyana and as they are now even a step closer to clinching that prized silverware, I want to remind them that nothing is impossible when we are determined and continue to work hard. I implore them to keep their eyes on the end goal – to be crowned the Diski Queens of Africa.”
Coach Desiree Ellis commented that the road ahead was not going to be easy, but yesterday was a day of big celebration for SAFA and Sasol, who have been with Banyana Banyana for thirteen years, going into two successive Olympics, two successive World Cups and another successful final. “It has been great support from Safa and Sasol and the fans at home – especially on Madiba Day”.
Banyana Banyana will meet with Morocco at the AWCON 2022 final on Saturday, 23 July 2022 at 22:00.