South Africa suffered a defeat in their U17 Women's World Cup qualiying opener, with a 2-0 loss to Zambia in Lusaka on Friday.
Banwana are aiming to qualify for the second consecutive tournament and third overall in India later this year but capitulated against the Shepolopolo in the first round, first leg encounter.
First-half goals from Dorica Malunga and Esther Banda ensured the Zambians condemned Simphiwe Dludlu's side to a losing start in the competition at Nkoloma Stadium.
The result means Dludlu's team must achieve a convincing victory at home to overturn the first-leg deficit and advance to the next round.