WELLINGTON – In a thrilling Women’s World Cup opener in Wellington, Sweden fought back and secured a 2-1 victory against South Africa in the pouring rain.
The third-ranked Swedes displayed resilience, and defender Amanda Ilestedt’s late goal in the 90th minute brought relief to their fans in the challenging weather conditions.
The match came alive early in the second half when South Africa’s Hildah Magaia scored a goal, but her effort resulted in a match-ending injury. Her goal gave hope to the African champions for an upset.
However, Sweden’s Barcelona star, Fridolina Rolfo, quickly equalized soon after, before Ilestedt’s decisive header from close range sealed the win, preventing South Africa from earning their first-ever point at the World Cup.
Although Sweden dominated possession, the cold and slippery conditions, combined with energetic defending from South Africa, seemed to unsettle them.
The Swedes, considered one of the favorites in the tournament, struggled to deliver accurate crosses in the first half and appeared vulnerable to their opponents’ speed.
Both teams had limited chances in the first half, but the game gained momentum after the break.
South Africa’s goal in the 48th minute was set up by Thembi Kgatlana, whose speed created space behind the defence before her cross was parried by goalkeeper Zecira Musovic.
Magaia managed to bundle the ball into the net but collided with Jonna Andersson during the process, resulting in a match-ending injury for Magaia.
Rolfo’s equalizer in the 65th minute was a scrappy one, as she scuffed her shot after South Africa failed to clear a Johanna Kaneryd cross.
The shot deflected off defender Lebohang Ramalepe, initially credited as an own goal but later awarded to Rolfo, marking her 26th goal for her country.
Ilestedt, a constant aerial threat, capitalized on a corner kick and leaped highest to secure victory for Sweden.
The defeat was heartbreak for South Africa, who had lost all three matches in their maiden World Cup appearance four years ago.
In Group G, Italy and Argentina are set to face off in Auckland tomorrow.
The Women’s World Cup is just beginning, promising more exhilarating matches and unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.
