The Banyana Banyana of South Africa are through to Women’s World Cup last 16 round for the first time in their history after a hard-fought win over Italy on Wednesday.
Desiree Ellis and her girls made history for South Africa.
After conceding the first goal inside 11 minutes of play in the Wellington Regional Stadium, the Banyana Banyana pushed hard and forced their opponents to score an own-goal 21 minutes later (32nd).
The scoreline was at 1-1 to half-time with South Africa being eliminated at that time.
However, Desiree Ellis’s speech was apparently strong in the dressing room as Thembi Kgatlana and teammates came back with a lot of energy.
Readn more : South Africa vs Italy starting line-ups – FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023
The Racing Louisville star assisted Hildah Magaia in the 67th minute to give South Africa a 2-1 lead.
But the defence did not watch over and Arianna Caruso equalized for Italy only seven minutes later, her second goal after the opener from the penalty spot.
The scoreline was 2-2 until the end of 90 minutes then Thembi Kgatlana stepped up to score the winner for Banyana Banyana in the additional time (90+2).
South African won the game 3-2 and will face Netherlands in their first-ever World Cup round of 16 clash.
The game will be played on Sunday, August 6 at 02:00am.