Banyana Banyana have announced their starting XI for their must-win FIFA Women’s World Cup clash against Italy.
South Africa have it all to play for in their final FIFA Women’s World Cup Group G game this morning against Italy, knowing a win could see them qualify for the knockout stages, but any other result would end their tournament.
Desiree Ellis’ team will be seeking a first-ever win at a World Cup for Banyana, having already achieved history when they picked up their first point at a World Cup finals in the 2-2 draw against Argentina last Friday.
At one point, it looked like that historic win could come in that match, as they had gone into a 2-0 lead against the South Americans. But the Argentineans fought back for a share of the points.
Sweden, who Banyana lost 2-1 to in their opening game, after conceding dramatically in the final minute, have already qualified after winning both of their games. They beat Italy 5-0, which means that Banyana will need to win, and hope Argentina doesn’t surprise Sweden in the other fixture.
Sweden tops the group with six points, Italy have three after beating Argentina in their opening game, while Banyana and Argentina have one point each.
Banyana will be without Kholosa Biyana who is suspended for the fixture, while captain Refiloe Jane remains doubtful after going off injured against Argentina.
Here’s how they line-up:
Banyana XI: Swart, Matlou, Mbane, Gamede, Dhlamini, Moodaly, Motlhalo, Ramalepe, Magaia, Seoposenwe, Kgatlana
Subs: Dlamini, Moletsane, Magama, Makhubela, Cesane, Salgado, Holweni, Kgoale, Shongwe, Jane, Kgadiete
Italy XI:
Subs:
