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Banyana kick off Wafcon with win over Nigeria

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Banyana Banyana got their 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign off to the perfect start with a 2-1 win over defending champions Nigeria on Monday evening.

The South African women would have been hoping to get one over their Nigerian counterparts after losing to them on penalties at the 2018 Cup of Nations final.

However, after a big buildup to the game, both sides took a cautious approach to the first half, with the Super Falcons creating the first chance after 24 minutes as Antionette Payne played in Asisat Oshoala, but Mbane popped up with a vital block in the box.

With both sides looking to give nothing away chances, were proving to be hard to come by as the sides went into the break goalless.

Things heated up in the second half when Banyana took the lead on the hour mark as Cesane beat her marker before picking out Seoposenwe in the box, she composed herself by taking a touch before slotting home.

A couple of minutes later it was 2-0 as Thembi Kgatlana set up Hildah Magaia, whose first-time finish into the far corner left the keeper with no chance.

Rasheedat Ajibade reduced the deficit for the Nigerians in added time with a close-range strike into the bottom corner, but it proved to be a consolation as Banyana secured maximum points.

South Africa will now turn their attention to Thursday’s clash with Burundi while the Super Falcons do battle with Botswana.