Nigeria were expected to start strong and did just that by piling on the pressure from the get go. Banyana were not overawed but kept their defensive shape well while playing on the break.
Their first opening saw Mamello Makhabane’s long range shot from the middle of the park firing wide of target in the opening exchanges.
The South Africans then appealed for a penalty after Refiloe Jane was brought down inside the box, however the plea fell on deaf ears as the referee waved play on instead.
The Super Falcons missed a good chance to go ahead when Sam Oparanozonie was goal side unmarked, but she shot over the top with a gaping net.
In the second half, Banyana almost took the lead when a low cross connected with Jermain Seoposenwe but she shot wide of target from close range.
Banyana threatened later on, but beat the side-netting through an acute angle from Thembi Kgatlana.
The latter wasn’t denied five minutes from time as she riffled home a first-time volley.
In search of a come back with limited time remaining, Banyana stood their ground to beat the Nigerians for the first time in eleven games.