Desiree Ellis' gamble fails as Banyana Banyana draw with Tanzania

Defending champions Banyana Banyana were held to a 1-1 draw by a spirited Tanzania side in their second WAFCON group stage match, with coach Desiree Ellis’ surprising changes proving costly.

Banyana moved back to the top of group C but will only confirm their place in the next round in their final group match. 

South Africa found themselves trailing at the break for the first time under Ellis’ watch at this tournament, and the warning signs were there early. 

Two defensive changes out of the four made from the last game unsettled the backline and Lonathemba Mhlongo was forced into a desperate clearance just eight minutes in.

The East Africans took full advantage of Banyana’s disorganisation when Opa Clement headed home in the 24th minute. 

A hopeful ball into the box caught the defence napping, and goalkeeper Kaylin Swart — in for the benched Andile Dlamini — was left flapping helplessly as Clement’s effort bounced in off the turf.

Ellis’ reshuffle, including Swart’s inclusion despite Dlamini’s solid showing against Ghana, didn’t pay off — and by halftime, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be a walk in the park for the reigning champions.

Searching for a spark, the coach turned to her trusted lieutenants — Hildah Magaia and Lebogang Ramalepe came on to add width, pace and composure. The effect was immediate as South Africa took control, forcing the Tanzanians deeper.

Their breakthrough finally came in the 70th minute through stalwart centre-back Bambanani Mbane. 

Nicknamed ‘Juice’, she shook off her marker and guided Ramalepe’s delivery into the net to level matters.

As the clock ticked, Banyana turned up the pressure. Tanzania began to crack and were reduced to 10 players when Elizabeth Cheney was sent off in the 84th minute.

Despite the late surge and numerical advantage, Banyana couldn’t find a winner — leaving Ellis with more questions than answers heading into their final group match.

Banyana will face Mali on Monday and will hope to seal their place in the knockout stages.