Akhona Makalima backs Banyana Banyana to overcome Nigeria’s Super Falcons

By Mpumi Manyisi
5th April 2024

South African referee Akhona Makalima says Banyana Banyana’s performance in recent times has raised the standard of the women’s game in South Africa, and has inspired the next generation of female footballers.

The reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-finalists are currently in Nigeria for a tough first-leg CAF Olympic Qualifier against the Super Falcon at MKO Abiola Stadium on Friday.

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Makalima believes there's a high chance Banyana will maintain the same trajectory as they fight for their spot at the 2024 Paris Games.

''The ladies have really made a positive impact in South African football. The national team is really making us proud and they continue to raise the standard of our football. I do believe they will make us proud tonight,'' said Makalima.

The 34-year-old FIFA official, affectionately known as SheRef, told SABC Sport she is pleased with the fact that the current crop of Banyana players represent different provinces across the country, which speaks to the diversity and unleashing of new talent at national level.

''We get to see ladies from different provinces being selected for the national team. It is amazing and it speaks to diversity,'' added Makalima.

Makalima further sent a special message to coach Desiree Ellis and her charges, rallying behind the team she believes have what it takes to make South Africa proud again.

''I just want to wish the ladies all the best ahead of tonight's game, they have made us proud before and I believe they can do it again tonight,'' she concluded.

One of the 12 Video Assistant Referees (VAR) at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast earlier this year, Makalima further welcomed the idea of introducing VAR in South Africa, saying it will positively impact the game.