The match
This is a date with destiny for Argentina, who have their sights set on a first win at the Women’s World Cup on their fourth appearance, after USA 2003, China 2007 and France 2019. Following their 1-0 defeat to Italy in their opening game, this looks to be a match that is too close to call, yet with Group G favourites Sweden up next for La Albiceleste, it is one they have every intention of winning.
Though disappointed to lose a hard-fought contest with the Italians, German Portanova’s charges were happy with their performance overall and remain confident and determined to keep their hopes alive.
Facing them are a South Africa side that came close to making history against the Swedes in their first match, in which they took the lead only to lose to Amanda Ilestedt’s last-minute goal. Quick and dangerous in attack, the Africans have already shown why they are the reigning continental champions.
Team news
Argentina gave as good as they got against Italy, and sitting deep no longer seems to be an option for them. Portanova’s 4-2-3-1 formation showed they can compete and take the initiative, one of the hallmarks of this side.
Not for the first time, Argentina will look for inspiration from Estefania Banini, who earned an ovation from the stands for her 13 runs with the ball against the Italians. Though midfielder Daiana Falfan ended the opening match with a niggle, she will be fit enough to start.
Banyana Banyana used a classic 4-4-2 formation against the Scandinavians and it very nearly paid off, as they turned in an impressive but ultimately luckless performance. Currently 54th in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking, they, like Argentina, are looking for a maiden win at the competition, though this is only their second appearance.
Players to watch
Lorena Benitez (Argentina) The midfielder is a key cog in Portanova’s set-up, continually providing support in her midfield role, where she offers balance, quality and an outlet for her team-mates, as well as the ability to hit both long and short passes. Currently with Brazilian club Palmeiras, this is her second World Cup.
Hildah Magaia (South Africa) The 28-year-old forward, who plays her club football for Sejong Sportstoto in Korea Republic, scored the opener against Sweden and was twice on target in last year’s CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final win. The sight of Magaia limping off in that opening match will have had South Africa fans worried, though coach Desiree Ellis has since confirmed she will start against Argentina.
Facts and figures
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Argentina failed to score against Italy, the seventh time they have gone goalless in a Women’s World Cup match in ten games across four competitions.
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With both sides yet to record a win at the World Cup, Dunedin will see history being made if either of them claims the three points.
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Four defeats in as many World Cup matches: that is the losing run South Africa are aiming to end when they take to the pitch on Friday.
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The second half could prove crucial to the outcome. All five of Argentina’s previous World Cup goals have come after the restart, which is when Sweden scored their two goals in their defeat of South Africa.
Quotes
“That first defeat hurt but we just have to lift our heads up. Just as we did then, we’ll be giving our all against South Africa. We’ve still got a chance and we’ll be gunning for the three points.” Estefania Banini, Argentina midfielder
fifa.com
