South Africa grabbed a stoppage-time winner to complete a 3-2 victory over Italy on Wednesday at Wellington Regional Stadium, New Zealand, to progress to the Round of 16 for the first time ever where they will face the 2019 Women’s World Cup finalist, the Netherlands.
Recall that South Africa had lost their 3 Group Stage matches at the last World Cup.
Italy started their Group G final game knowing a draw would be enough to see them to the knockout round and went ahead in the first half through Arianna Caruso’s eleventh-minute penalty.
Bayana Bayana were not deterred as they grabbed an equalizer after a mix-up at the La Zurri’s defence gifted them an own goal. They further inflicted more harm on Italy in the second half as they went ahead through Hildah Magaia after a brilliant play.
Italy didn’t stay behind for much long as they pulled themselves level through Arianna Caruso. The tie was nearing the end and Italy was on the cusp of qualification until Magaia burst through in the 92nd minute of the game beating her marker to square the ball to Thembi Kgatlana who swept the ball home from a few yards out.
Finally, a World Cup win for the African champions South Africa, earned them a Round of 16 spot for the first time ever.
Bayana Bayana will now face the 2019 finalist, the Netherlands in their maiden Round of 16 encounter.
