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The Power of a Champion’s Mindset
Champions are defined not just by their victories, but by the way they approach every challenge. For Bambanani Mbane, a key player for the South African national team, the match against Ghana in the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 Group C opener was more than just another game—it was an opportunity to help her team secure maximum points and set the tone for the tournament.
This marks the third consecutive time that South Africa has won their opening game in the continental competition, a feat that has become almost routine for the Banyana Banyana. What appears effortless on the surface is, in reality, the result of years of hard work, discipline, and meticulous attention to detail. For players like Mbane, it is a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Mbane’s performance in the 2-0 victory over Ghana was nothing short of exceptional, earning her the title of Woman of the Match. This recognition is more than just a trophy; it serves as a reminder of her contributions on July 7, 2025, when she played a pivotal role in securing the win.
“I am so glad we managed to get the three points. It was never going to be an easy game, but I am happy with the three points. Going forward, this will boost our confidence. We are the defending champions, and we knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I’m happy with how we started. Getting these three points was very important,” Mbane shared after the match, clearly proud of her team’s efforts.
Teamwork and Unity
There is a unique sense of unity among the Banyana Banyana players, which becomes evident even before the match begins. From the moment they step off the bus, the team sings together—songs that reflect their identity and aspirations. These moments of camaraderie create a strong bond that translates into their performance on the field.
For Mbane, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies, a two-time African champion, this unity is reflected in her interactions with her club teammates. Her ability to communicate and anticipate the actions of her teammates is a crucial factor in the team’s success.
A notable moment during the match came in the second half when Mbane headed the ball softly towards goalkeeper Andile Dlamini. Dlamini, who had been instrumental in keeping a clean sheet in the previous WAFCON, handled the pass with ease, showcasing the seamless coordination between the two players.
Seamless Communication and Trust
Coach Desiree Ellis praised the communication skills of Mbane and Dlamini, highlighting how their understanding of each other allows them to perform at a high level. “Those two know each other from club level. Their communication skills are on another level. It’s almost like they can premeditate what the other is going to do. I am never worried about them. I saw that moment, and it speaks to their maturity and understanding of each other,” Ellis said.
The presence of multiple Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies players in the starting lineup—Mbane, Dlamini, Lebohang Ramalepe, Fikile Magama, Karabo Dhlamini, Noxolo Cesane, and Tiisetso Makhubela—further strengthens the team’s cohesion and performance.
A Clean Sheet and Strong Foundation
Ellis also commended Dlamini’s standout performance against Ghana, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean sheet. The goalkeeper’s efforts were critical in ensuring that South Africa secured a solid victory, setting the stage for the rest of the tournament.
As the Banyana Banyana continue their journey in WAFCON 2024, the combination of individual brilliance, team unity, and strategic preparation will be essential in achieving their goals. With a strong start and a confident mindset, the team is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the competition.
