Banyana Banyana made history as they become the first ever South African team to reach the knockout round of any FIFA senior tournament, be it Men’s or Women’s.
After their inconsistency costed them in their opening two games, which saw the drop five points from winning position against Sweden and Argentina, Desiree Ellis’ minions needed a win against Italy to progress.
They were not helped at the start of the mouth-watering winner takes all game as they were pegged back earlier on, when Italy were awarded a penalty following a clumsy Dhlamini challenge on Beccari.
Arianna Caruso made no mistake from the spot as she fires Italy in front in the eleventh minute. But the heavens smile on South Africa just after the half hour mark as Orsi beat her own Goalkeeper with a clumsy pass to make it 1-1.
Caruso completed her brace to level matters for Italy in the 74th minute after Hilda Magaia had given Banyana Banyana the lead from a Thembi Kgatlana assist.
Kgatlana had the final say, though, as she scored in the second minute of added time to secure the win, which sees South Africa pick up the next round ticket and make history.
Elsewhere, Sweden ended the group campaign with three wins in three following a 2-0 win over Argentina in Hamilton.
Second half goals from Rebecka Blomqvist and an Elin Rubenssen penalty in the 90th minute ensured Argentina finished bottom of the group.
Sweden faces record winners, the United States in the round of 16 while South Africa will take on beaten finalist in the previous edition, the Netherlands, who finished top of group E.
Hassan Afolabi
