Banyana are set to take on Finland in their opening Cyprus Women’s Cup Group A match this afternoon (13h00), in only their second ever meeting.
The two sides met in 2015, as Banyana went down 2-1 to the Europeans.
“We have footage of Finland in their two recent matches – one against Spain in October and one in January against Denmark, so we have an idea of what they are capable of. We have put up a plan as to how to approach this game, and we are confident we will come out tops,” Ellis told the SAFA website.
“This tournament is very key – this is where we started last year with our preparations for the COSAFA CUP and the Women’s AFCON, doing well here will be a great confidence booster ahead of the World Cup,” added Ellis.
“But our aim is to peak in France, hence this tournament is so very important for us. Also with the format changed, we now have a target to play towards – similarly like in the World Cup. So we are very glad to be here and will utilise this opportunity get ready for France. We are looking for improved performances.”
Czech Republic and North Korea are also in Group A.