For the first time ever, Banyana Banyana made it to the round of 16 at the world championship, but a prestigious Dutch team crushed their dreams.
Despite the fact that South Africa had the initial attempt on goal, the Dutch quickly countered and forced Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Kaylin Swart into a stunning save by tipping a curling effort over the bar.
In the scramble for the corner, Jill Roord scored the game’s first goal in the ninth minute after Lebogang Ramalepe’s excellent first touch was stopped on the line.
The 2022 WAFCON champions kept up the pressure but was unable to maintain possession of the ball due to the valiant Dutch defense.
An injury to Jermaine Seoposenwane caused uncertainty in the South African ranks, forcing them to play with ten women for a considerable amount of time as the team doctor tried to make some magic.
Midway through the first stanza, the Lionesses took advantage and nearly extended their lead thanks to a strong save from Swart on a shot from Danielle van der Donk.
In the latter phases, South Africa’s offense was aggressive, and they made the most of the little ball they had.
Ellis appeals for financial support to women football.
In reacting to the defeat, Coach Desiree Ellis appealed to the government and sponsors to step up if women’s football in the country is to push on after the team’s historic World Cup run.
Ellis said there were players in her squad who still had full-time jobs outside football and called for South Africa to establish a professional league.
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“Otherwise, we will come back in four years’ time and go through the same thing… we could have gone further.
