By Michael Madyira
A sensational second-half collapse by Banyana Banyana saw them succumbing to a 5-0 defeat by Denmark in an international friendly match at Aalborg Portland Park on Friday.
After managing to frustrate the Danes in the first half, South Africa fell in spectacular fashion to register the heavy defeat.
Isabella Obaze broke the deadlock six minutes after the breather to open the floodgates for the home side.
Signe Brunn then added her name to the scoresheet on 55 minutes before returning to strike again two minutes later to record a brace.
Amaile Vangsgaard then made the evening a difficult one for Banyana with a 64th-minute goal while Kathrine Kuhl completed the rout with 15 minutes to go.
It was a result Banyana coach Desiree Ellis hopes will not demoralise her girls in their preparations to defend the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations in July 2025.
Friday’s defeat came ahead of South Africa meeting European champions England on Tuesday.
That was South Africa’s biggest loss since October 2022 when they were defeated 4-1 by Australia.
Elis could justify her girl’s poor showing by saying she missed key players like Thembi Kgatana, Linda Motlhalo, Jermain Seoposenswe and captain Refiloe Jane.
On an evening she was making her 103rd national team cap, Mamelodi Sundowns defender Lebohang Ramalepe wore the armband on Friday and might not be pleased to lead the team to such a huge defeat.
It was a fairly-attended match against Denmark, who are ranked as the 12th-best team in the world while South Africa are number 50.
While Banyana are preparing for Awcon, Denmark were getting ready for the 2025 Uefa Women’s Championships.
Pictured above: Banyana Banyana midfielder Kholosa Biyana vies for possession against Denmark while Amogelang Motau looks on
Source: Banyana Banyana
