POLOKWANE – Banyana Banyana opened their 2025 Cosafa Women’s Championship campaign with a 2-0 victory over Malawi women’s national football team at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium last Wednesday.

The win places Banyana second in group A on the same number of points as Angola women’s national football team, who defeated Lesotho women’s national football team 3-1 earlier in the day at the same venue.

Nthabiseng Majiya came close to giving the hosts an early lead, but her effort struck the side net.

Malawi also had an opportunity to go ahead, with Tendai Sani’s attempt sailing over the crossbar, as the match went into the break goalless at 0-0.

The second half resumed without immediate substitutions from either side.

Ten minutes after the restart, a combination between Nonhlanhla Mthandi and Majiya created a clear chance, but Majiya’s effort in front of goal was cleared by the Malawi defence.

Just after the hour mark, Bongiwe Thusi was fouled to earn Banyana a set piece.

Sinegugu Zondi delivered the ball to stand-in captain Sibulele Holweni, who tapped home to give the home side a 1–0 lead.

Bonolo Mokoma sealed the win in the 91st minute, securing a clean sheet and maximum points for Banyana.