The Netherlands qualifies for the quarter-final stage of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, getting past a determined South Africa side by two goals to nil at Sydney Football Stadium.
Jill Roord’s fourth goal in as many matches opened the scoring after just nine minutes, giving the 2019 runners-up something to cling onto in the first half.
Thembi Kgatlana and Hildah Magaia looked to cause the opposing defence all kinds of problems but Van Domselaar made a number of key saves, keeping the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions at bay.
Desire Ellis’ team seemed to lose a bit of spark after the restart as legs began to tire and Lineth Beerensteyn took full advantage, with her shot slipping through the arms of Kaylin Swart to give the Oranje a two-goal advantage with 22 minutes left to play.
South Africa were unable to cut the deficit ultimately but should be proud of their performance in their first ever knockout match.
The Netherlands advanced to the quarter-final stage, where they play Spain on August 10.
South Africa’s tournament comes to an end, with a friendly against the United States lined up for September 21.
