Desiree Ellis targets sharper finishing ahead of Algeria test

The South African senior women’s team is scheduled to face Algeria in two friendlies at Princess Magogo Stadium on 14 April and King Zwelithini Stadium on 17 April.

Ellis acknowledged that while her side is effective at creating chances, converting those opportunities remains an area that needs refinement.

“We took time to rest some players to avoid injuries. Now that we are here, we will be focusing on the team’s response in the final third," Ellis told SABC Sport.

"We are a team that creates chances, but sometimes have challenges when it comes to finishing. That is something we will be looking at coming into this match.”

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The coach highlighted that training in Durban provides similar weather conditions to what the team will face at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Algeria presents a strategic challenge for the side as they continue to fine-tune preparations following the postponement of the continental showpiece.

“We are happy to have secured this match against Algeria, a very good opponent who are also position-based. We have played a lot of West African teams, so it’s good to face another North African side.

"Coming to Durban is similar to what we are going to face in Morocco, weather-wise.

Right now the goal is to test the team in hot weather conditions,” she concluded.