Refiloe Jane was the star of the show as Banyana Banyana secured a 2-1 victory against Cameroon to retain their Cosafa Women’s Championship title at the Wolfson Stadium in Port Elizabeth.
The South African Women dominated opposition throughout the 2018 Cosafa Women’s Championship tournament, securing a 100% record by claiming five wins en route to the title with victories over Madagascar 2-1, Botswana 1-0, Malawi 6-0, Uganda 2-0 and Cameroon in an enthralling final.
Gooooooaaaaaaal! Jane again in refs optional time. @Banyana_Banyana restore lead 2-1 #SAvsCAM #COSAFAWomenschampionship2018
— Banyana_Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) September 22, 2018
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Desiree Ellis' side started the brighter of the two teams, but found the going tough against a resilient Cameroon outfit. The home deservedly found the opener on the stroke of half-time with a well-struck effort from Jane.
The visitors gave a much better account of themselves in the second-half, particularly in the final-third causing Banyana a few scares.
Goalkeeper Kaylin Swart made a fine diving save to deny a goalbound effort in the 63rd-minute, however Cameroon were level minutes later after Banyana failed to clear their lines, gifting Edith Mbeleck the opener.
The game looked to be heading for extra-time, but Jane had other ides as she grabbed her brace in stoppage time to ensure that Banyana defend their title.
Its all over in Port Elizabeth. @Banyana_Banyana retain their COSAFA Women’s Championship trophy as they triumph 2-1 over Cameroon #COSAFAWomenschampionship2018
— Banyana_Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) September 22, 2018
Banyana Banyana IX vs Cameroon:
Kaylin Swart (GK), Lebohang Ramalepe, Nothando Vilakazi, Noko Matlou, Janine Van Wyk (C), Kgaelebane Mohlakoana, Linda Motlhalo, Thembi Kgatlana, Refiloe Jane, Kholosa Biyana, Jermaine Seoposenwe
Subs: Andile Dlamini (GK), Roxanne Barker (GK), Regina Mogolola, Gabriela Salgado, Bambanani Mbane, Morifi Chuene, Thato Letsoso, Nompumelelo Nyandeni, Khanya Xesi
Photo: Gallo Images