Photo Credit - SAFA website.
South Africa head coach Ntombifuthi Khumalo has admitted to being disappointed after the U17 women’s national team failed to qualify to the next stage of the World Cup qualifiers following a 0-2 defeat (5-1 on aggregate) to Nigeria on Saturday.
Bantwana went into the return leg contest at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo seeking to overturn a 3-1 defeat suffered in the first leg at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville a week ago.
However, goals from Chidi Harmony in the 37th minute and Aishat Animashaun in the 56th minute ensured passage to the final qualifying round, where they will face either Botswana or Algeria.
“I am disappointed because we did not make it to the next stage of the World Cup qualifiers, but I am also proud of my girls after their performance. This is the international stage and some of them tried their best, but Nigeria were the better team,” said Khumalo as quoted by SAFA website.
“For me, what I can take back home is the experience gained on this international stage, especially after facing the same opponent in the first and second round that was stronger. We all know that they are doing well in Africa in such competitions.”
SAFA President Danny Jordaan said: “We feel for the players and all the members of the team after this disappointing result. But the gap between South Africa and Nigeria is closing. Congratulations to Nigeria for progressing to the next stage.
“But remember, 2031 is just six years from today. We are building a team for 2031 and many of our players will be 20/ 21 years old then. Today’s experience will be a huge benefit in the bigger scheme of things. Thank you to the HOD and the team for your determination and commitment, all the best.”
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