Tough Start for SA Women's Softball in World Cup, Eyeing Redemption Against Cuba
Tough Start for SA Women's Softball in World Cup, Eyeing Redemption Against Cuba
The South African Women’s Softball team faced a challenging start to the World Cup, suffering a 0-14 defeat against the hosts, Spain. The match proved to be a tough initiation for the South African squad, competing on the global stage against one of the world’s top teams. Nevertheless, the team remains resilient and is determined to bounce back when they take on the formidable Cuban side in their second game at 12:30 pm SA time.
🔥🏆🔜 Check out tomorrow's WBSC Women's Softball World Cup Group B schedule!#SoftballWorldCupW pic.twitter.com/UFaNEd3bQu
— WBSC ⚾🥎 (@WBSC) July 18, 2023
Cuba's Strong Start
Cuba began their campaign with an impressive 4-3 comeback against the Netherlands, securing their first-ever victory against the European champions. Having lost to the Netherlands in the 2016 and 2010 editions of the WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup, Cuba is now focused on maintaining a strong position in the standings to secure a spot in the World Cup Finals scheduled for next year.
📊 Check out Group B standings after Day 1 at the WBSC Women's Softball World Cup#SoftballWorldCupW pic.twitter.com/g3WaBKbdAf
— WBSC ⚾🥎 (@WBSC) July 18, 2023
Game Review: South Africa vs. Spain
Spain wasted no time and swiftly took the lead in the first inning. Sorangel Ledezma’s single to center field put her on base, distracting the South African defense as Carla Segura sneaked home from third, followed by Yaicey Sojo from second. Candela Cabedo capitalized on an opportunity and scored on a pitch that eluded catcher Shane Luyt. Anna Sobrino’s single to right field added two more runs to Spain’s tally, with Uxua Modrego and Meritxell Blesa crossing home plate, extending Spain’s lead to 5-0.
Despite pitcher Hannah Hugo’s valiant return pick up, Sobrino and Carmen Caicoya scored additional runs, and a double by Estibaliz Álvarez to right-center field further bolstered Spain’s lead. As the innings progressed, Spain continued to dominate, with Ledezma’s sacrifice fly and Blesa’s impressive inside-the-park homer, scoring Raquel Rodrigo and Modrego, culminating in a formidable 13-0 lead for Spain at the end of the first inning.
In the bottom of the second inning, Maria Caicoya added another run for Spain, scoring on a fly ball to right field that eluded second base Rachel Matsimela. Despite this, the scoring action dwindled for the remainder of the inning and throughout the rest of the game.
Watch game highlights below:
Conclusion
The South African Women’s Softball team is determined to learn from their challenging start in the World Cup and set their sights on a competitive game against Cuba. Meanwhile, Spain showcased their prowess and secured a commanding victory in their opening match. As the tournament progresses, the competition is set to intensify, and South Africa will undoubtedly strive to leave a mark on the world stage, facing each game with grit and determination.
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