The United States threatened early on as Julie Johnson missed a chance to put the United States ahead 15 minutes into the match after a defensive error inside the Banyana box.

Banyana captain Janine Van Wyk came kept the scores level in the 20th minute, as she was forced into making a last-ditch tackle denying USA the chance to take the lead.

American forward Crystal Dunn opened the scoring for the hosts in the 35th minute as she converted Mallory Pugh’s cross from the left from close range.

The hosts pressed for a chance to double their lead and were nearly rewarded before the half-time interval, but Banyana goalkeeper Roxanne Barker produced a fine save to keep the score at 1-0 heading into the break.

The American side dominated during the second-half and nearly extended their 1-0 lead in the 48th minute, but South African defender Nothando Vilakazi denied the United States the chance, after making a goal-line clearance.

Meanwhile, Banyana’s only shot on goal was comfortably saved by American goalkeeper Hope Solo in the 68th minute.

Banyana Banyana coach Vera Pauw opted to make a change to introduce midfielder Amanda Dlamini from off the bench to record her 100th international cap for the South African senior women’s national team.

However, the score remained 1-0 in favour of the Olympic champions after 90 minutes as Banyana now turn their attentions to the Rio Olympic Games in August.