05 April 2025 – Banyana Banyana legend Noko Matlou took her final bow from the international stage as her teammates bid her farewell with a commanding 3-0 win against Malawi in an international friendly match played at a wet UJ Soweto Campus on Saturday afternoon.
It was a fitting tribute for a player who has served South African football, the South African senior women’s national team, the women’s game and continental football with distinction for almost two decades. Tears welled up in several eyes at UJ Soweto Campus as Matlou made way for Shakira O’Malley in an emotional substitution late in the second half. She received a deserved standing ovation from her teammates, the opposition and the appreciative crowd that had braved unrelenting showers to give the humble but legendary player her flowers. It is certainly not far-fetched to imagine that even those who were watching on television screens across the continent also had lumps in their throats as she made her way off the pitch for the final time.
The Sasol-sponsored home side stamped their authority early in the match, with Nonhlanhla Mthandi opening the scoring in the 13th minute after a dominant passage of play. Then midfielder Linda Motlhalo calmly converted a penalty in the 21st minute to double the lead before halftime. Mthandi returned to haunt the visitors soon after the restart to complete her brace in the 51st minute, capping a standout performance that deservedly earned her the Diski Queen of the Match award.
This fixture formed part of Banyana Banyana’s continued preparations for the defense of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown and the FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers. It also served as a historic milestone as Matlou made her final appearance in the South African senior women’s national team colours. The 39-year-old veteran, who began her Banyana Banyana career as a striker before transitioning to defence, captained the side on her swansong.
“I’m very happy at this moment and going forward I wish the team luck and well for WAFCON and the FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers,” said Matlou, reflecting on an illustrious international career spanning over 17 years.
Malawi brought a competitive edge and physical presence, but Banyana Banyana’s tactical discipline and attacking intent kept them in control throughout the game.
“I think we are on the right track. For this game, we wanted the physicality because we know what Malawi can do, and they gave us that,” said coach Dr Desiree Ellis, pleased with both the result and the intensity of the match.
The two sides will meet again on Tuesday, 8 April 2025 at 15h00 for the second and final game of this two-match series. That match will also honour another Banyana Banyana great, Nompumelelo Nyandeni, as she also bids farewell to international football. With momentum on their side, Banyana Banyana will be aiming to close the series on a high note.
