South Africa’s Banyana Banyana are the champions of Africa after defeating hosts Morocco 2-1 in the final of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday night at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The first half of the encounter resulted in a barren draw but the second half produced three goals as Hildah Magaia scored twice in the 63rd minute and 71 minutes respectively for South Africa before Ayane grabbed a consolation for Morocco in the 80th minute.
South Africa walked away with the continental title at the 12th edition of the biggest football showpiece in women’s football in Africa, becoming the third-ever nation to lift the trophy. Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea were the only countries to have won the tournament before today.
Banyana Banyana failed to lay their hands on the trophy in five previous attempts but their efforts have finally paid off, with Desiree Ellis transforming since she took over in 2016.
Banyana Banyana will lead African representatives that include Super Falcons of Nigeria, Atlas Lionesses of Morocco, and Copper Queens of Zambia to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup slated for Australia and New Zealand.