CNN
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The Netherlands concluded South Africa’s historic debut in the knockout stages of the Women’s World Cup with a commanding 2-0 triumph in Sydney on Sunday.
Banyana Banyana found themselves at a disadvantage early on when a failed clearance in the ninth minute presented Jill Roord with an effortless header into an empty net, securing her fourth goal of the tournament.
Despite this setback, the South Africans continued to fight and had numerous chances.
Captain Thembi Kgatlana proved to be particularly menacing, unleashing multiple shots on target only to be denied by a series of impressive saves from Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar.
Shortly after the start of the second half, Dutch winger Lieke Martens had a goal disallowed for offside.
However, in the 68th minute, South Africa’s fate was sealed when what should have been an easily saved shot by Lineth Beerensteyn slipped through Kaylin Swart’s hands and into the back of the net, causing Swart to express her frustration by slamming her hands onto the pitch.
This victory means that the 2019 finalists will now face Spain in the quarterfinals in Wellington on Friday.
While South Africa’s journey may be coming to an end, the 2023 Women’s World Cup has already been a historic tournament for the team. Notably, a dramatic last-minute goal from Kgatlana secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Italy, marking their first-ever win in the tournament.
Banyana Banyana also came close to a draw against Sweden, another formidable opponent, in their tournament opener.
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