Commanding Performance from the Outset
Ramalepe wasted no time setting the tone, opening the scoring in the 5th minute with a composed, curling finish into the top-right corner off a precise pass from Jermaine Seoposenwe. Her early breakthrough helped drive a rampant South African display.
Match-Winning Contributions Across the Pitch
South Africa continued its momentum when Refiloe Jane doubled the lead in the 32nd minute with a sensational free-kick. In the second half, Hildah Magaia (61′) and substitute Ronnel Donnelly (79′) added goals to complete the emphatic 4–0 result.
The Banyana Banyana's all-round dominance—from midfield control to clinical finishing—highlighted a team peaking at the right moment.
Significance & Next Steps
The win ensured South Africa finished top of Group C with 7 points, setting up a quarter-final clash against Senegal. Mali also advanced to the knockout stage as one of the two best third-placed teams.
Match Summary Table
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player | Lebohang Ramalepe (South Africa) |
| Award | TotalEnergies Woman of the Match |
| Key Contribution | Opened scoring with superb 5′ goal; led dominant team display |
| Final Score | South Africa 4–0 Mali |
| South Africa Result | Finished 1st in Group C, advanced to quarter-finals |
Lebohang Ramalepe’s early strike and commanding presence helped spark South Africa’s authoritative performance over Mali, earning her a well-deserved TotalEnergies Woman of the Match award. With momentum firmly behind them, Banyana Banyana head into the quarter-finals as a formidable force in the title defence.