South Africa have qualified for the last 16 of the Women’s World Cup after recording their first ever win at the quadrennial tournament with a fascinating 3-2 victory over Italy in Wellington.
Thembi Kgatlana’s 92nd-minute goal proved to be the winner on Wednesday.
Italy went ahead in the 11th minute when Arianna Caruso scored from the spot. However, South Africa equalised when Benedetta Orsi directed the ball into her own net two minutes after the half-hour mark.
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In the second half, South Africa, with far lesser possession, took the lead through Hilda Magaia in the 67th minute. That goal restored hope and pumped more energy into the team.
Desire Ellis’ side almost extended their lead shortly after but were unlucky to miss. Then, Caruso was at it again, netting the equalising goal for Italy 16 minutes to the end of regulation time.
However, the African champions did not relent. They kept pressing but Italy showed they meant business as well.
Obviously unsatisfied with the scoreline, even though they would have gone through with a draw, Italy had a couple chances to bury the game but failed to beat goalkeeper Kaylin Swart.
The big moment came in the 92nd minute when 27-year-old captain Thembi Kgatlana calmly slotted home Magaia’s pass. Kgatlana’s goal sent the South African fans into wild jubilation. Coach Ellis left her mouth wide open in disbelief.
The remaining nine additional minutes (with another five) was the longest in the lives of the South Africans. Scenes of joy, crying and all sort of emotional displays broke out at the blast of the final whistle.
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South Africa had done the unthinkable, beating Italy to win their first ever Women’s World Cup match is truly historic. They have also qualified for a maiden last 16 appearance in their second World Cup tournament.
South Africa will now play Group E winners the Netherlands on Sunday.
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