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Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis believes they were the better side despite being knocked out of the tournament by bitter rivals Nigeria.
South Africa’s title defence hopes were shattered after the Super Falcons claimed a 2-1 win at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
Speaking at the post-match presser, Ellis says failing to finish chances let the team down.
"Today, we were the team that had less recovery time. We travelled, whereas Nigeria have been settled here all competition long.
"Today, we looked like a team that didn't play 120 minutes against Senegal, and that is credit to the conditioning coach.
"The way we were moving the ball around, we had them chasing shadows, and like I said, I don't think we deserved to lose today, but we didn't take our chances," defended Ellis.
Ellis adds that the opponent's ability to finish chances was the defining factor after a tense and competitive match of football.
Banyana utility player Gabriela Salgado was stretchered off the pitch following a horrific injury towards the end of the second half. Ellis admits that her players lost concentration after the incident.
"When the injury happened, everyone was shocked, and we had to try and calm the players down to help them refocus. It was very difficult after that moment."
Ellis concludes that she was impressed with the team’s overall performance despite failing to defend the championship.
