Calay News
Sweden secured their advancement to the top of Group G after winning all three of their matches, while South Africa qualified second in the group. Therefore, in the round of 16, Sweden will face the United States, while South Africa will face the Netherlands, who won Group E.
The Argentine coach, Germán Portanova, expressed his satisfaction with the efforts of the players but also his sadness for not having qualified. He pointed out that one of the team’s problems is the lack of speed and physical power that other teams have.
In the other Group G game, South Africa beat Italy 3-2, leaving the definition of second place in the round of 16 until the last minute. Italy started winning with a penalty, but South Africa leveled the score with an own goal and then took the lead with another goal. Italy equalized again, but South Africa netted the winner in stoppage time.
Argentina entered the game with little chance of qualifying, but their lively fans sang and cheered throughout the match. Despite Sweden’s clear territorial superiority, the Argentine defense remained orderly and efficient in the first half, although they conceded twice in the second half.
Argentina said goodbye to the World Cup with two losses and a draw. The Argentine players hugged each other, crying, at the end of the game and thanked their fans for their support. Estefanía Banini highlighted the growth of women’s soccer in Argentina and the importance of continuing to bet on the development of the players in the country.
