Italian Job: Banyana Banyana Steal the Show and Hearts with Historic World Cup Triumph
South Africans are ecstatic after the women’s national football team, Banyana Banyana, achieved their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup knockout stage qualification after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Italy in their final group game today.
Banyana Banyana Cruise Nicely To The World Cup Round Of 16
The match, played at the Wellington Regional Stadium in New Zealand, was a must-win for both teams, who were level on points and goal difference in Group G. Sweden had already secured the top spot with two wins, while Argentina was eliminated with two losses.
Italy’s Adriana Caruso’s two goals- from an 11th-minute penalty and 74th-minute equaliser, were not enough for Banyana Banyana. The girls’ goals came from Nemedetta Orsi in the 32nd minute, Hilda Magaia in the 67th and a sweet 92nd goal from Thembi Kgatlana to seal the victory.
The final whistle sparked scenes of joy and relief for the South African players and staff, who had waited for this moment since their debut at the World Cup in 2019.
Banyana Banyana will now face The Netherlands in the round of 16 on Sunday, August 6, at the Sydney Football Stadium.
Mzansi Hysteric
South Africans online were overjoyed by a cool Italian Job by Banyana Banyana. Check out their reactions below.
Alfred:
“Italy was clearly outplayed, especially in the second half. Banyana Banyana put up a spirited fight, and they gave it a hundred and eighty percent today. A huge Congratulation is in order 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦”
Runya:
“What a nerve wrecking match, Kgatlana what a player 🔥🔥.”
Cellular:
“For those who kept making noise that we coming back… swallow your pride! We staying at New Zealand and Australia! And that’s how we enter the Knockout stages!!! 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦💪🏿💪🏿”
Poverty Killer:
“Danny Jordan must send an immediate payment to all these ladies now!”
Blandman:
“Congratulations!! Absolutely amazing to accomplish what Bafana Bafana weren’t ever able to do!!”