South Africa's Banyana Banyana have thumped Zambia 4-1 in the last round first leg qualifying series of next year's women's Africa Cup.

The South African's lethal forward Joanne Solomon pumped in three goals at Lusaka's Sunset stadium to virtually guarantee her side a place in the finals.

Solomon opened the flood gates in the 20th minute and added to her tally five minutes from the break.

She again hit the target on 58 minutes after outpacing Zambian defenders Annie Namukanga and Enya Matukuta.

Zambia would have reduced the arrears on the nick of half time but Martha Mutale's curling strike was ably parried by Banyana Banyana's goalkeeper Delisile Mbatha.

Zambia, who only took on coach Frederick Kashimoto a week before the match, failed to pressure the South Africans upfront.

It was only individual skill and brilliance by Mumba Muchinda that helped the hosts get a consolation on 60 minutes.

Muchinda dribbled past the South Africa defence before unleashing a long drive which keeper Delisile failed to handle.

Veronica Phewa sealed it for the visitors in the 77th minute from a free kick.

The South African coach Gregory Mashilo was pleased with his side's performance.

"I am very happy. I predicted that we would beat them 4-0 but they were lucky to get a goal," he said.

"I shall not rest because of this victory and I am looking forward to more goals in South Africa."

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Teams:
Zambia: Ennie Matukuta, Melinda Namafe (Alice Mpundu), Kapesa Lyato, Anne Namukunga, Deborah Shamaoma, Kape Saili (Priscilla Munjunga), Martha Mutale, Mumba Muchindu, Julia Siame, Edna Nayame, Mutimba Chiyuka (Gift Lisaka).

South Africa: Delisile Mbatha, Jabulile Baloyi (Nandipha Mlomo), Jijane Rose, Luthuli Makosi, Matjekane Noriah, Mawele Isabel (Nyandeni Mpumi), Nteso Mapule, Phewa Veronica (Y), Solomon Joanne (Zungu Makhosazana, Lydia Monyepao.