South Africa reached the last 16 after claiming their first Women’s World Cup win with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Italy in Wellington.
Thembi Kgatlana’s stoppage-time winner came after Italy fought back to level with an Arianna Caruso header.
The late drama completed an emotional fortnight for the South African goalscorer.
The Racing Louisville forward, who suffered an Achilles injury in 2022 that kept her sidelined for 10 months, added: “I came back from a very, brutal injury to be here, to play for the country, to represent every single girl that wanted to be here, to make history with the girls for South Africa.”
South Africa will play Group E winners the Netherlands on Sunday.
Taiwan National Day Celebration
