Thembi Kgatlana Secures Historic Win for South Africa in Women’s World Cup

Gripping and tension-filled encounter

In a gripping and tension-filled encounter, Thembi Kgatlana’s injury-time heroics culminated in a sensational 3-2 victory for South Africa over Italy, propelling the team into the knockout rounds of the prestigious Women’s World Cup. This historic triumph etched a new chapter in the nation’s sporting history and left coach Des Ellis brimming with joy.

Overwhelmed with excitement, Ellis shared her elation, stating, “This is just amazing. I thought they were incredible. “I said we were going to fight for every ball. We said we’re not going to give up and they were absolutely magnificent.”This victory is for everyone back home, people that got up in the early hours of the morning to support us – that is for them.”

Early Lead for Italy

Italy surged ahead with an early lead, courtesy of Arianna Caruso’s precise penalty in the 11th minute. The opportunity arose from a regrettable tackle by Karabo Dhlamini on the edge of the penalty box, as she challenged from behind, leaving little chance of successfully winning the ball.

South Africa seemed to respond instantaneously with more energy and pressing the Italians more. Their efforts almost paid off when Robyn Moodaly unleashed a powerful shot that skillfully evaded the goalkeeper but regrettably struck the post, rebounding back off the woodwork. It would have undoubtedly been a phenomenal goal and equalizer.

South Africa 🇿🇦, STAND UP! Your support has given @Banyana_Banyana the energy to believe, persevere, and #LiveTheImpossible! Congratulations to our heroes from all 30 000 of us at Sasol, proud sponsor of Banyana for the past 14 years! We bring you all the love we can carry 💙 pic.twitter.com/oDSHnnsBtY
— Sasol (@SasolSA) August 2, 2023

Lucky equalizer

With Banyana pressing hard and they had their breakthru and drew level in the 32^nd minute with a huge slice of luck as Italy defender Orsi put the ball into her own net from outside of the box. Orsi collecting the ball under some pressure from Thembi Kgatlana, played a strong ball back towards her own goal. Italy’s goalkeeper Durante was not expecting it and went to clear with her feet but could not get there quick enough and the ball was in the back of the net.

Taking the lead

1-1 the scoreline at halftime, with South Africa needing a victory in order to advance to the round of 16.

Italy had the main ball possessions at 62% to 38%, but with the possesson that Banyana had they seems to still create scoring opportunities. South Africa had the moment they were looking for in the 67^th minute when Hildah Magaia’s stunning goal turned the game in favor of South Africa. And almost scoring again 4 minutes later with a stunning header only to be denied by a fantastic effort by the Italian goalkeeper.

But 7 minutes later Italy quickly struck back with Caruso’s second goal from a corner, levelling the scores again at 2-2 and setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

Gripping final minutes

As the clock ticked down, tension gripped the field. As time was running out for South Africa to claim their spot in the next round. In a brilliant team effort, Kgatlana finally netted the winner in the 92^nd minute, courtesy of Magaia’s assist, sending the crowd into euphoria and South Africa into the knockout stages.

"South Africa, we did this one for you!" 🇿🇦🫵

Onto the knockout stages for @Banyana_Banyana! 🙌#FIFAWWC | #BeyondGreatness
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) August 2, 2023

Looking ahead

South Africa has successfully clinched the 2nd spot in Group G, trailing behind Sweden. Their next challenge awaits in the Round of 16 knockout stages on Sunday, August 4th, as they face the formidable Netherlands.

The Dutch team displayed their dominance in Group E, securing two victories and a draw, impressively netting 9 goals while conceding just 1 throughout the tournament.

As Banyana Banyana enters the match as underdogs, they carry an indomitable spirit, ready to give their all on the field and seize every opportunity that comes their way. It’s a thrilling encounter that promises excitement and determination from both sides.