2023 Women’s World Cup: How Banyana Banyana’s five-minute of nervy defence caused upset
by Daniel Mfoniso
South Africa were on course to pick up their first Women’s World Cup victory in a fascinating encounter at Dunedin, New Zealand. However, a five-minute of nervy defence caused them to settle for a 2-2 draw against Argentina to earn their first point in Group G.
Motlhalo and Kgatlana had starred for South Africa, causing problems for Argentina and combining effectively to give South Africa what appeared to be a strong attacking lead.
However, Glasgow City winger Linda Motlhalo gave South Africa the lead at the 30 minute mark after being teed up by Thembi Kgatlana, who was shown to have stayed onside following a video assistant referee (VAR) review which ends the first half 1 – 0.
After the break, the Racing Louisville forward Kgatlana spurned a few chances before netting South Africa’s second goal through Jermaine Seoposenwe’s 66 minute pass.
Five minutes after Bayana Bayana’s goal, Sophia Barun reduced the deficit for the South Americans with her 74 minutes right footed shot that curled into the top corner. La Albiceleste completed their come back at the 79th minute, 5 minutes after their first goal with Romania Nunez header.
Unfortunately, a draw leaves both sides with a single point. South Africa and Argentina are unlikely to progress from a group also containing European powers Sweden and Italy, who will play later on Saturday.
Argentina will now face Sweden on Wednesday, while South Africa play Italy at the same time with both teams looking for a miraculous/historic first Round of 16.
