Continental champions South Africa lose to Sweden at World Cup

The Banyana Banyana of South Africa squandered a one-goal lead to eventually lose to Sweden in their opening game of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The African champions conceded a late goal to lose 2-1 to Sweden in the opening Group G game on Sunday.

After a goalless first 45 minutes, South Africa took the lead through a 48th-minute goal by Hildah Magaia.

Less than 20 minutes after, Sweden hit back to equalise through Fridolina Rolfo.

The game was heading for a draw before Amanda Ilestedt netted the winner for Sweden in the 89th minute.

Read Also: Nnadozie helps Falcons begin World Cup campaign with draw vs Canada

South Africa are yet to earn a point at the World stage, having lost all three matches on their only previous appearance in 2019.

This is Africa’s second defeat at this year’s women’s World Cup following Zambia’s 5-0 loss to 2011 champions Japan on Saturday.

Only Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured a point at the tournament after their hard fought 0-0 draw with Canada.

Morocco will be in action on Monday when they face two-time champions Germany.

The Super Falcons on Nigeria will be playing in their second game of the tournament against hosts Australia.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now