It was another tough learning experience for Banyana Banyana as they went down to 2023 FIFA Women’s co-hosts Australia on Saturday afternoon at the Kingsmeadow in London in the United Kingdom.
The Matildas took an early lead in the 5th minute through Cortnee Vine after poor communication between goalkeeper Regirl Ngobeni and her defense. Vine completed her brace at the home of the Chelsea women’s team in the 24th minute.
Clare Polkinghorne also added her name to the scoreboard and Australia were in a comfortable 3-0 lead at the halftime break.
The SASOL-sponsored Banyana Banyana had a chance to improve in the second half but it was the Australians who extended their lead with a Caitlin Foord goal in the 52nd minute. Hildah Magaia finally pulled a goal back for Banyana Banyana in the 86th minute to end the match at 1-4 for the South Africans.
The result comes on the back of another defeat to Copa America Femenina champions Brazil. Coach Desiree Ellis had emphasized the importance of improving as the team continues with preparations for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
South Africa will find out the identity of their opponents in the group stages of the World Cup at the draw to be held on October 2022 in New Zealand.
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