Italy have been eliminated from the Women’s World Cup following a 3-2 defeat to South Africa in their final game of the group stages.
The Azzurre had started the tournament promisingly, rising to a 1-0 victory over Argentina in their opening-round clash at the back end of July, thanks to a late winner from Cristiana Girelli.
Their second game of the tournament, however, went considerably less favourably, with highly-touted Sweden running out 5-0 winners in Wellington.
Then, on Wednesday, Italy slipped to a second defeat of the group stages, confining them to just three points and a third place finish.
Arianna Caruso had provided Italy with an early lead against South Africa, converting an 11th minute penalty, however a Benedetta Orsi own goal on 32 minutes reset the scores.
Hildah Magaia then put South Africa ahead after 67 minutes, before Caruso equalised seven minutes later.
Heartbreak came in the 92nd minute, when Thembi Kgatlana was found within Italy’s six-yard box. South Africa’s captain made no mistake in sealing the win for her country from such close range.
Italy fly home from the World Cup having finished in third place on three points, whilst South Africa claimed second on four points, with Sweden running out group winners on a perfect nine.
Sorry, but if you concede 8 goals in 2 group games, you can expect not to make it through the group.
always playing in the back i thought we had given this styla up they should have replaced the coach when ever we enconter teams that are physcially strong we stumble under 20 19 national mens they are tec brillant be prepared for the euros trouble is coming