Pre Women’s WC Friendlies: African Champions SA Lose To Serbia

The two goals Banyana Banyana scored were not enough to salvage at least a draw against Serbia in an away international friendly played on Monday afternoon (10 April 2023) at the SC FA of Serbia – Stara Pazova.

The SASOL-sponsored South African senior women’s national team had a slow start to the match, conceding as early at the 9th minute with Violeta Slovic slotting home the opener. The home side was firmly in control during those opening minutes and it showed when Milica Mijatovic doubled the lead in the 17th minute. 

The visitors were struggling to settle into the game and faced an even tougher task when Nevena Damnjanovic extended Serbia’s lead in the 22nd minute to give the home side a 3-0 lead.

Coach Desiree Ellis’ charges finally regained their confidence when Hildah “Breadwinner” Magaia  slotted past the Serbian goalkeeper in the 30th minute. The sides went to the halftime break with Serbia leading 3-1.

The second half saw a much improved performance from Banyana Banyana with Jermaine Seoposenwe getting the second goal for the team in the 79th minute.

The visitors piled on the pressure as they went in search of the equalizer, but it was not meant to be and the Serbians  walked away with the 3-2 victory.