South Africa WNT, Banyana Banyana, face a crucial challenge as they aim to overturn a 0-1 deficit against Nigeria in their return-leg of the Olympic Games qualifying match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium tonight.

Needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit to secure their spot in Paris later this year, Banyana Banyana’s task is clear.

On the other hand, the Super Falcons only require avoiding defeat in Tshwane to progress to the Olympic.

Speaking ahead of the decisive clash, Banyana coach Desiree Ellis emphasized her team’s determination and commitment to securing a victory.

“We always knew it was a two-legged match, and we wanted to get a positive result in Nigeria, and that didn’t happen, but I thought we played better in the second half,” Ellis stated in an interview with Safa media.

Acknowledging the significance of the match, Ellis added, “For us, it’s a game where we have to put in everything and there is no second-guessing, there are no second chances, it’s a game where we have to score and try to get a goal as early as we can.”

Despite the pressure, Ellis stressed the importance of caution and readiness, given the formidable nature of their opponents, the Super Falcons.

“We know we are coming up against a team that is leading 1-0, and we have to be ready for any eventuality in the way we think they might play,” she cautioned.

With striker Sinoxolo Cesane returning to the squad after missing the first leg in Nigeria due to visa issues, Banyana Banyana will look to capitalize on her availability and offensive prowess.

The stakes are high for both teams as the victor will secure a spot in Group C in Paris, joining Spain, Japan, and Brazil for the Olympic Games.