BY Obakeng Maje

The South African Women’s Under 20 National Team, Basetsana, have finished top in the Group stages of the Zone VI Games played in Lusaka.

In their last group stage match, the South Africans defeated Zimbabwe 5-0 on Tuesday, 11 December 2012.

The U20 women’s section of the tournament consists of four teams, which now means after they have played against each other in the group stages, all four sides get into the semi-final phase.

The number one placed team will face number three, with the second placed facing the fourth placed side. This means, South Africa will play Zambia on Thursday, 13 December in the first semi-final at the Zanaco Sunset Stadium starting at 11h00 while Zimbabwe will face Namibia in the other match at the same venue. That match kicks off at 15h00.

Basetsana has had a great run so far in the tournament, defeating hosts Zambia 1-0 in the opening match of the women’s competition on Friday, 07 December. They followed that with a goalless draw against Namibia (Sunday, 09 December) played at the Nkoloma Stadium, before thrashing neighbours Zimbabwe 5-0.

Basetsana head coach, Sheryl Botes is feeling confident ahead of the semi-final clash.

“I am excited that we have made it this far in the competition. I have brought along several young players to complement the experienced players so we can have continuity as we approach the World Cup qualifiers next year. The girls have showed great potential throughout the competition and we are confident if we keep on playing the way we have been doing, we should be able to reach the final,” said Botes.

“Despite beating the hosts in the opening game, we are very much aware that the clash against Zambia will not be easy and I have been preaching it to the players. The fact that they are playing at home, and a spot in the final is at stake will make things tough for us, and we need not be complacent because this is a completely different match altogether.”

The third and fourth place play-offs will take place at the Zanaco Sunset Stadium on Friday, 14 December at 15h00.

The final will be held on Sunday, 16 December at the Nkoloma Stadium.

Kick-off is at 11h00.