Ronnel Donnelly scored a hat-trick as Banyana Banyana took firm control of their 2028 Olympic qualifying tie with a 4-0 first-leg victory over Madagascar at the Free State Stadium on Friday.
South Africa dominated the match from the opening stages despite playing behind closed doors at Madagascar’s request. The visitors defended deep and tried to break on the counter, but Desiree Ellis’ team kept possession, moved the ball patiently and steadily increased the pressure.
Donnelly made the breakthrough in the 25th minute. Karabo Dhlamini delivered into the danger area and the Mamelodi Sundowns striker reacted first at the far post, guiding the ball beyond the goalkeeper.
The forward doubled the lead in the 37th minute with the best finish of the afternoon. She collected the ball near the edge of the penalty area and drove a low shot into the corner, giving South Africa a deserved two-goal advantage at half-time.
Banyana continued to dictate the contest after the restart. Donnelly completed her hat-trick in the 61st minute, turning a strong individual display into a decisive contribution to the tie and underlining her value to a side missing several regular starters.
Madagascar’s resistance weakened as the game entered its final quarter. In the 78th minute, Hildah Magaia rounded the goalkeeper and directed the ball towards goal, where a defensive intervention resulted in an own goal that made it 4-0.
The clean sheet was another important part of the performance. Andile Dlamini and the South African defence limited Madagascar’s opportunities, allowing captain Linda Motlhalo and the midfield to keep the team on the front foot.
The four-goal cushion gives Banyana a commanding position before the return leg, but Ellis will want the same discipline and intensity to finish the job. South Africa are seeking a return to the Olympic tournament after missing the previous two editions.
Source: Reporting was based on Goal.com South Africa. Featured image credit: Backpagepix via Goal.com.