Banyana Banyana were beaten 3-0 by the world's number one ranked side USA at the Levi's Stadium last night, as preparations for the FIFA World Cup reach the final stages.
Playing in front of a crowd of over 22 000 fans, Banyana knew that they were up against the strongest side in women's football and could only hold out for the 37 minutes before the hosts opened the scoring through Samantha Mewis, who beat Andile Dlamini in the the Banyana goal.
Banyana coach Desiree Ellis used the game to give some of the youngsters in the team a chance to play. Uncapped Sibulele Holweni, the national under-17 captain, started the game, while her junior national teammate Karabo Dhlamini came on at the start of the second half for Rhoda Mulaudzi.
Ellis made more changes in an effort to give players a run, as Kaylin Swart replaced Dlamini in goal, while Nomvula Kgoale came on for Holweni. Experienced Noko Matlou, meanwhile, was forced to come off with an injury and was replaced by Bambanani Mbane
Banyana tried their best to keep out the USA, but conceded a second 12 minutes from time, as Mewis completed her brace.
Substitute Carli Lloyd wrapped up the 3-0 victory with a goal in stoppage time.
Banyana's next opponents before the World Cup will be Norway in Amiens, France, on June 2.
The World Cup will be played in France from June 7 to July 7 .