Banyana Banyana put on quite a fight against Sweden in their opening Women’s World Cup match in Australia this weekend. They persevered through gloomy weather to prove themselves worthy of a place against an amazing team. According to FIFA rankings, Sweden stands at 3rd place with 3 bronze medals while the WAFCON champions are positioned at number 54. The match was a thriller, with Swedish forward/midfielder Fridolina Rolfo equalising the goal Banyana’s Hildah Magaia scored just twenty minutes before. At the final stretch and with great disappointment, Banyana conceded a goal at 90 minutes that resulted in their 2 -1 loss.
Catch the highlights here.
First Half: South Africa’s Defence Held Up Against a Dominant Sweden
Although Sweden possessed the first half of the game, South Africa held up an impressive defence. Goalkeeper, Kaylin Swart, experienced most of the attack. Already at a disadvantage with her height, she blocked the multiple free-kicks and corners coming her way. But she was wonderfully aided by Bongeka Gamede and Bambanani Mbane, who demonstrated their skills by tackling offenses without any hesitation and providing much-needed clearances.
Sweden suffered a failed appeal for a penalty in the 33rd minute as South Africa fought on.
Second Half: South Africa’s Defences Fall Against a Relentless Sweden
Just mere minutes into the second half, striker Thembi Kgatlana got into action to set things up for Magaia. She shot past Swedish goalkeeper, Zecira Musovic, into the six-yard area where the ball reached Magaia. Magaia then seized the opportunity and landed the incredible goal that had South Africans erupting with pride and celebration.
But moments later, Magaia was injured. This would be a sign of South Africa’s approaching end as their defence started failing. Gamede tried in vain to prevent Rolfo from getting to the ball, resulting in an unplanned goal for Sweden in the 65th minute.
Amanda Ilestedt dominated after an ill-fated corner kick and scored a crushing goal against Banyana in the concluding minute.
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Banyana will be facing Argentina and Italy next in their Group G division with a loss under their belt. Banyana coach Desiree Ellis will need to do all that she can to keep the team in good spirits so that they can continue to perform their best.
Visit our post on Banyana’s inspiring story here.
