Banyana Banayana have qualified for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup knockout stage following their 3-2 comeback win over Italy on Wednesday.
It was their first-ever win at the competition which also makes them become the first South African team to go past the group stage of a senior World Cup.
Ten minutes into the game, Banyana Banyana’s Karabo Dhlamini collided with Chiara Beccari at the edge of the box, resulting in the referee awarding the Italians a penalty.
Arianna Caruso made no mistake, putting the ball behind the net from the spot in the bottom left corner, giving Kaylin Swart no chance as she did not even dive.
With Le Azzure leading by a score of 1-0, South Africa intensified their efforts. Robyn Moodaly executed a spectacular spinning half-volley with the outside of her boot. Her shot beat Italy’s goalkeeper, Francesca Durante, but unfortunately, the ball hit the woodwork.
In the 32nd minute, Italy’s Benedetta Orsi’s attempt to play a back pass to her keeper resulted in an own goal, gifting South Africa the equalizer.
The ball was too far away for Durante to stop it. It went in to tie the game through to the halftime break.
In the second half, Banyana Banyana displayed a strong offensive presence, with Thembi Kgatlana posing a consistent threat in Italy’s territory.
Magaia, Kgatlana combine for Banyana Banyana comeback
In the 67th minute, South Africa took the lead. Kgatlana made a run and passed the ball through to Magaia, who smashed it into the far corner.
But when it seemed that Banyana Banyana had the game under their control, Caruso got her brace as her powerful header flew in to level the scores.
READ MORE: Desiree explains why she has sidelined Dlamini at the World Cup
With 11 minutes added time and South Africa urgently needing a goal, Magaia again burst through the static Italian backline, setting up Kgatlana who slotted home the winner in the 93rd minute.
Reacting to her winning goal, Kgatlana said it was an emotional moment for her.
Over the last two weeks, I have lost three family members. I could have gone home but I chose to stay with my girls because that’s how much it means.
Said Kgatlana .
Banyana Banyana will now face the Netherlands in the round of 16 on August 6.
Meanwhile, Group G winners Sweden also defeated Argentina 2-0. They have booked themselves a mouthwatering last-16 tie against the United States.
