As anticipation builds for the WAFCON 2024 semi-final, South Africa’s head coach Desiree Ellis has voiced her concern about the tight turnaround time before their high-stakes clash against Nigeria’s Super Falcons.
The reigning champions, Banyana Banyana, battled hard to edge out Senegal in a nail-biting quarter-final that went the full distance,120 goalless minutes followed by a 4-2 penalty shootout victory on Saturday night.
In contrast, Nigeria’s Super Falcons cruised into the semis a day earlier, thrashing Zambia’s Copper Queens 5-0. With more rest and time to recover, the Falcons are heading into the clash fresher and arguably better prepared.
Coach Ellis, speaking to Sowetan Live, didn’t hide her concerns:
“We’re going to prepare, but 120 minutes of football, with a day less to rest and the added stress of travel, takes a lot out of the players.”
The highly anticipated semi-final showdown is set for Tuesday at 5:00 PM, where two of Africa’s women’s football powerhouses will face off in a match that promises intensity, rivalry, and a fight for a spot in the final.
Both teams boast championship pedigrees, but with fatigue and fitness now a factor, Ellis’ side may be facing an uphill battle against a well-rested Nigerian squad.
