Italy in tears after Women’s World Cup loss to South Africa

South Africa is moving on while Italy is heading home.

A stoppage-time goal by Thembi Kgatlana propelled South Africa to a 3-2 win Wednesday at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Wellington, New Zealand.

As a result, the 54th-ranked team in the world advanced to the round of 16.

Italy’s World Cup problems began Saturday with a 5-0 loss to Sweden.

That put the eighth-ranked Italians in need of at least a draw on Wednesday to advance and appeared to have that well in hand when Arianna Caruso scored in the 74th minute. It was her second goal of the match.

But Kgatlana’s winner sealed South Africa’s victory, leaving Italy in tears.

“I really don’t know,” goalkeeper Francesca Durante said after the match. “I don’t know what didn’t work.”

Everything you need to know about the 2023 Women’s World Cup including schedule, scores and news

“I don’t think I can find the right words in this moment,” Caruso said. “I am not happy because we scored two goals and we didn’t do anything.”

“I’m sure that the game against Sweden and all the goals we conceded affected our trust, our confidence, our peace of mind,” said Italy coach Milena Bertolini. “I think it’s clear that today the emotional side was actually an important factor.”

One of the biggest moments of regret for Italy came in the form of a communication breakdown leading to an own goal from Benedetta Orsi in the 32nd minute.

All Italy can do now is watch as South Africa, which finished second in Group G, faces Netherlands in the knockout round on Sunday.

Sweden, which won Group G, will face the United States in the round of 16.