Banyana Banyana Coach Desiree Ellis was a picture of happiness after guiding her side to glory on the international stage.
The South African team were crowned Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions following their 2-1 defeat of Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
A Hildah Magaia brace (63′, 71′) secured the win, with only Rosella Ayane (80′) on target for the Atlas Lionesses.
Reflecting on the victory, a beaming Ellis said on IOL: “When we walked out and saw the sea of red, I was not perturbed. You could see the focus on the player’s faces, they were not perturbed.
“The players were really determined and from the first moment, you could see that they wanted to win it. Today they showed true kasi flavour and the South African spirit and togetherness all came together.”
Ellis added: “It means a lot to the whole of South Africa, to the coaches and players that have come before.
“A big thank you to SAFA and to Sasol. This is for everyone that is connected to women’s football. Most importantly, the players were absolutely brilliant today.”
