With the heartbreaking defeat to Sweden in the opening FIFA Women’s World Cup encounter on Sunday behind them, the South African Senior women’s national team will be hoping to get their first win of the tournament when they face Group G rivals Argentina at the Dunedin Stadium on 28 July 2023.
The African Champions scored the first goal against the Swedes but their victory was short-lived as the European side bounced back to seal a 2-1 victory at the Wellington Regional Stadium on Sunday.
Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis remained proud of her team and how the Sasol-sponsored side executed the game plan, describing them as brave.
“We had a game plan and I thought it worked throughout, we were defensively very sound. We knew that they were going to be a challenge at set-pieces and I thought we handled that very well. Our transitions could have been a better. Our decisions in the final third, if that was better, we would be speaking a different result now,” said Ellis.
“We have been working on all those things and as the game went on we tried to effect changes to make sure that we stand fast. Unfortunately, we conceded at a moment when we were in complete control and that put us back a bit. To concede right at the end is a bit cruel, but that is football.
“Even though we lost, we are very proud of the way we played. We might have not had the type of preparation we wanted, but the group of players showed resilience. They have shown bravery and courage, and through that we could have gotten a better result.”
Sasol Senior Manager: Group Brand & Sponsorships Nozipho Mbatha, also agreed with Ellis and commended the team on the courage shown in their opening match.
“Congratulations to the courageous Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana for their incredible display on the field. This heart-pumping match kept us on the edge of our seats, showcasing the intensity of the world’s biggest football competition. While the result may not have been what we hoped for, we’re thrilled that Banyana Banyana embraced their #LiveTheImpossible mantra. The team executed their months of hard work and planning with determination. As Sasol, we stand proud as their number one fan and urge fellow South Africans to show their support by sending messages of encouragement through our social media platforms,” said Mbatha.
