Banyana Banyana move closer to booking ticket to Paris

The pintsized Thembi Kgatlana flexed her broad shoulders to carry Banyana Banyana to the penultimate round of the Olympics qualifiers with a 3-1 win on aggregate over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 

Pikinini, as Kgatlana is nicknamed due to her small frame, showed her big heart by scoring both goals in the 2-0 win at Orlando Stadium on Monday in a frustrating afternoon under cold and wet conditions. The scoreline might make it seem like it was a comfortable win for Banyana, but it was far from it, as the side missed numerous chances to demolish a DRC side that was there for the taking. 

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A goalless draw would have seen Banyana go through after Kgatlana was again the hero in DRC, helping Banyana score an important away goal to draw 1-1 last week. But the longer the match stayed goalless, the more frustrated Banyana became, and the more confident DRC grew – especially playing against the reigning African champions. 

It looked like the visitors would steal a win in the dying moments of the game, such is the wicked sense of humour of football when it comes to punishing teams that don't take their chances. Kgatlana ensured that didn't happen with a late brace to seal the result. Both goals were created by Nicole Michael, who was brilliant throughout the encounter.

Banyana had a firm grip on the match when coach Desiree Ellis brought in Kholosana Biyana for Hildah Magaia just before the hour mark. Biyana bossed the midfield, dictating terms for Banyana and also allowing her team to attack with more confidence. She started the move that was finished by Kgatlana to break the deadlock. 

Before Biyana's introduction, the