In a highly anticipated clash between two of Africa's heavyweight women's football nations, South Africa produced a determined display at the Moulay Rachid Stadium to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.
The 2022 WAFCON champions made one change to their starting XI, with Ronnel Donnelly replacing Noxolo Cesane. The decision paid off as Thembi Kgatlana and captain Refiloe Jane found the back of the net to put Banyana in control.
Nigeria, the 10-time WAFCON champions, reduced the deficit from the penalty spot after Jane was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the area. The Banyana captain was subsequently shown a second yellow card, leaving South Africa to defend their lead with 10 players.
The Super Falcons piled on the pressure in the closing stages, but Banyana's defence held firm, with goalkeeper Kaylin Swart producing a crucial performance to help secure victory. Swart was subsequently named Player of the Match.
Ellis admitted her side made the match more difficult than necessary but was delighted with the players' determination.
"I think we just like to make things difficult for ourselves, but the dream is still alive," Ellis said.
The Banyana coach highlighted Swart's crucial save as a turning point before praising her players for refusing to surrender after conceding the penalty.
"We were very resolute. The dream is still alive," she added.
South Africa's victory came on the same night Ghana eliminated Ivory Coast from the playoff race with a 2-1 comeback win.
Banyana and Ghana now advance to the second phase of the qualification playoffs, where they will join four other nations in a six-team tournament in November and December.
The competition include two Asian teams, one South American side and one representative from the Oceania Football Confederation.
The top two teams from that tournament will advance to the final phase in February next year, with three places at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup ultimately at stake.
