Banyana Banyana of South Africa defeated Italy 3-2 on Wednesday to advance to the Round of 16 of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Chrestinah Kgatlana of South Africa scored a 93rd-minute goal in stoppage time to secure a place in the second round. This is a historic achievement for South Africans because it is their first time ever.
South Africa led 2-1 in the 67th minute thanks to a Magaia strike, but Italy equalised with to a vital header from Arianna Caruso.
Italy needed at least a draw to qualify for the knockout round but Kgatlana’s late strike was the difference. The Africans finished on four points, behind group leaders Sweden. They join the Super Falcons of Nigeria in the next round of the tournament
South Africa’s Bayana Bayana will play the Netherlands in the last 16 on Sunday, while Nigeria will face England on Monday.