Banyana returned to winning ways during the first leg yesterday by thumping Mozambique 7-0 in Maputo to kick-off their campaign on a high note.

A brace each by Gabriela Salgado and Linda Motlhalo and goals from Melinda Kgadiete, Janine van Wyk, Noxolo Cesane saw Banyana taking a solid advantage going into the second leg.

Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis, said they needed the big win.

“It was an important game for us if you want to go to AFCON and this is where it starts.

“We did not have a lot of time to prepare, though, because we only came to camp two days ago, and some of our players only arrived last night.

“They travelled 20 hours or so, and we needed to take care of them.

“However, I think it was a professional performance, and we made sure we won't concede. We knew we will create chances.

“I think we hit the post about five or six times, but the goals we scored were well worked. Our running off the ball, our passing was really good.

“We are happy with the result, and that is the important thing to get a result away from home that when you go back home that you don't put a lot of pressure on yourself. I think the team did magnificently.”

South Africa host Mozambique at 15:00 on Tuesday afternoon at the Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport