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Desiree Ellis expects a more clinical side in Madagascar clash

South Africa heads into the encounter with a comfortable 4-0 advantage after winning the first leg.

Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis anticipates a more clinical approach when her team faces Madagascar in the second leg of their CAF Women’s Olympic qualifying match in Bloemfontein. South Africa currently leads 4-0 from the first leg, putting them in a strong position for the second round of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic qualifiers.

Ellis emphasizes that the match offers an opportunity for less-regular players to gain game time and strengthen the squad's depth. She adds that the team has previously used this tactic at WAFCON, playing Ronell Donnelly and Isabella Ludwig upfront for various reasons. Ellis believes the team could have scored more goals in the first leg and is now focusing on improving their conversion rate in the second half to maximize their chances of advancing.

The 63-year-old coach appreciates the chance to play in front of a live audience, following the first leg's closed-door arrangement. She hopes the team delivers a strong performance for their supporters in Bloemfontein. The Sasol Banyana aim to showcase a professional performance against Madagascar, despite the substantial lead.

Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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