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Nkosilathi Sibanda Sports Reporter
South Africa 3 – 1 Botswana
IT was a tale of missed chances for an offensive South African women football side as they beat an out of sorts Botswana at Luveve Stadium yesterday.
Two goals from striker Mosili Moakhoali and one by Amogelang Motau were strikes of brilliance that put a nod to the tournament, setting pace for a challenge to their opponents. Had the South Africans been more accurate on goal, they could have scored a hatful.
Just before the break, Basetsane, as South Africans are affectionately known, easily shot through the porous Batswana defence, with Moakhoali netting the first goal in the 44th minute.
An impressive build-up from Linda Sepotokele, Chamelle Wiltshire and Drishana Pillay in the midfield assured South Africa a smooth run as they tore the Botswana’s rear-guard apart.
Botswana equalised through Afentse Dikupa but the celebration was short-lived as South Africa scored their second goal less than a minute later. It was another misery for the Batswana girls when they were caught napping in defence, giving way for South Africa’s third goal in the 77th minute.
It was unfortunate for the Botswana side as their first choice goalkeeper Sedilame Bosija was injured in an attempt to save a goal in the first half. This dealt a heavy blow to the Batswana as South Africa made light work of substitute goalie Aratwa Kasemang.
She had a bad day in office, failing to complement Bosija’s outstanding saves earlier on.
South African coach Sherly Botes was impressed by her charges, only to complain that they should have scored more.
“We played well. I’ve no complaints other than to say my girls should’ve scored more goals. We’re looking at improving for the next game,” she said.
Sephekeo Motlhagodi, the Botswana gaffer was a disappointed man. He said the African Union Sports Council Region 5 games were meant to create relations so he would not put pressure on his players.
“South Africa was a good side. It was a good experience,” he said.
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