Amanda Perobelli/Portal
Sweden reached the semi-finals of the European Championship last year
CNN –
South Africa were denied the country’s historic draw as Sweden scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 win at the Women’s World Cup.
In the 90th minute, New Zealand’s Amanda Ilestedt scored for the Swedes in Wellington and broke the hearts of the South Africans.
It had looked like South Africa would clinch their first point in the history of the Women’s World Cup.
Hildah Magaia had flicked a rebound ball over the line and put South Africa ahead in the 48th minute. It was South Africa’s second goal in tournament history.
Andrew Cornaga/AP
South Africa’s players celebrate taking the lead against Sweden.
The South African goalscorer was later substituted and left the pitch in tears after apparently suffering an injury while scoring.
But in the 66th minute Sweden, semi-finalists of the tournament four years ago, equalized. It was initially considered an own goal before it was awarded to Fridolina Rolfo.
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Sweden finished third at the 2019 Women’s World Cup.
The Sweden side were far from their best, but that shouldn’t detract from the impressive performance of South Africa, a side ranked at No. 54 in the world and a country that made their debut at the Women’s World Cup in France in 2019.
The 2019 finalist is on course for success
Portugal also didn’t look out of place on their debut at the Women’s World Cup, but ultimately lost 1-0 to the Netherlands.
A goal from Dutch defender Stefanie van der Gragt within the first 15 minutes gave the 2019 runners-up the initiative and took complete control of the game.
While Portugal struggled for the rest of the game, the Netherlands’ experience showed.
Despite the loss, Portugal will feel empowered by their performance – but need to step up in the last third to make their mark on the tournament.
The Netherlands will be delighted to have started the season with all three points as the side prepare to face the sovereign USWNT in the next game – a repeat of the 2019 final.