Banyana one foot in final

BANYANA Banyana look set for an easy passage to the final of the Cosafa Senior Women's Champions when they play Malawi in the semifinals in Zimbabwe today.

Based on the two countries' performance in the group stage matches, Banyana should have the beating of the Malawians.

The match takes place at Rufaro Stadium, starting at 12.30pm.

Banyana have won all their three matches, scored nine goals and conceded only one to finish on top of Group B.

Malawi, on the other hand, finished second in Group A with one win, one draw one and a loss. Their rearguard was as porous as South Africa's was tight, conceding 11 goals in three outings. They scored one goal less than Banyana.

Banyana reached the semifinals after pipping Tanzania 1-0, while Malawi walloped Lesotho 5-2 and they will be hoping that their emphatic win will inspire them to overcome the champions.

Banyana's defence led by Janine "Booth" van Wyk has been further bolstered by the return from suspension of Yola Jafta.

Acting coach Joseph Mkhonza is likely to maintain the 4-3-3 formation he used in the previous matches, with Noko "Beep Beep" Matlou teaming up with captain Amanda Dlamini and the in-form Zanele Sukazi up front.

Matlou's constant switching from left to right is likely to frustrate Malawi as it will be difficult for them to plan the match around the Limpopo striker.

Mkhonza knows exactly what to expect from Malawi after he watched them in the 8-2 defeat by Zimbabwe on Tuesday.

Banyana are likely to play against Zimbabwe in the final on Saturday because the hosts appear to have what it takes to beat Tanzania in the other semifinal match at Rufaro Stadium also today. Kickoff is at 3.15pm.