By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Banyana Banyana of South Africa head coach Desiree Ellis says playing in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is big motivation for his side, Prompt News reports.
The defending champions will be up against Nigeria at the Labri Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca on Tuesday (today).
Banyana Banyana are looking to win a second title, while Nigeria are targeting a record-extending 10th title.
Ellis declared playing at the this stage of the competition is a thing of pride.
“Nigeria is a familiar team that we’ve played against over the last couple of years. We travelled yesterday and today, and we will have our final training session and there’s not much you can do in one day,” Ellis was quoted by safa.net.
“But there are a few things that you can tweak, and a few things that you can work on. The technical team has been really busy behind the scenes and leaving no stone unturned, so I think you don’t need motivation for a semifinal, and we are ready for the game.”
The four-time CAF Woman Coach of the Year believes that their previous meetings with Nigeria will not mean much as the stakes are now higher.
“I don’t think it means a lot, it does mean, however, that we know we can get over the line, but I think past results don’t really mean anything because it’s a different tournament and it’s three years down the line.
“Also, it’s a different coach and some new players, but it’s the same Nigeria and they have the quality. We have to be on top of our game to make sure we get over the hurdle.
” They are the only country that has defended back-to-back on numerous occasions, and it would be big for our country,” added Ellis.
