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Defending champions South Africa are affectionately known as Banyana Banyana. They delivered a commanding performance on Monday night. They defeated Mali 4-0. This victory secured the top spot in Group C of the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024. The decisive victory at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda sealed their progression to the knockout stages. It also sent a strong message to their rivals. The reigning queens of African women's football are in formidable form. Coach Desiree Ellis's side, who had already secured their quarter-final berth before kickoff, showed no signs of complacency. Banyana Banyana made several changes to the starting lineup. Yet, they maintained a high level of intensity and tactical discipline. This proved their depth and championship credentials. Early Goals Set the Tone South Africa wasted no time in asserting their dominance, breaking the deadlock just four minutes into the game. Lebohang Ramalepe capitalized on a well-placed pass from Jermaine Seoposenwe. She calmly slotted the ball into the net to give Banyana Banyana an early lead. This immediate impact showcased their intent and caught the Malian defence off guard. The pressure on Mali's goal was relentless, and the second goal arrived in spectacular fashion in the 32nd minute. Captain Refiloe Jane stepped up to a free-kick just outside the box. She unleashed a sensational curling effort. It nestled perfectly into the top left corner and left Mali goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao stranded. The two-goal cushion at halftime was a fair reflection of South Africa's superior attacking prowess and midfield control. Ramadan Second-Half Masterclass Solidifies Victory Banyana Banyana continued their attacking onslaught after the break. They were eager to extend their lead. They wanted to reinforce their position atop the group. Their efforts paid off in the 61st minute. Hildah Magaia, a key figure in their previous WAFCON triumph, added her name to the scoresheet. She latched onto a well-timed through ball from Karabo Dhlamini. Using her left foot, she clinically finished, putting South Africa in a commanding 3-0 position. The comprehensive win was sealed in the 79th minute by substitute Ronnel Donnelly. It was a moment to remember. Donnelly calmly guided the ball home from a cross by fellow substitute Nonhlanhla Mthandi. She scored her first international goal and rounded off a dominant display. Mali, while showing flashes of individual skill, found it challenging to penetrate South Africa's resolute defence. Saratou Traoré and Aïssata Traoré put in commendable efforts. However, Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Andile Dlamini and her backline remained largely untroubled. They secured a well-deserved clean sheet. Naija Latest News Onwards to the Knockout Stages The 4-0 triumph means South Africa finishes Group C with an impressive seven points from three matches. This positions them as strong contenders as the tournament progresses. Their ability to deliver such a convincing win against a Mali side also aspiring to top the group is impressive. It highlights the meticulous preparation and strategic depth of Coach Ellis's team. This result not only boosts Banyana Banyana's confidence but also sends a clear message to their potential quarter-final opponents. They have secured their spot in style. The focus now shifts to the demanding knockout stages. In this stage, every match is a final. The defending champions are showing exactly why they hold that prestigious title. Their journey in the WAFCON 2024 continues with formidable momentum.

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