South Africa earns huge psychological advantage for the Saturday Final

Precise in passes and polished inside the circle, South Africa easily set aside the Indian challenge in the match between the two top contenders for the Saturday final. A flurry of goals in the late second half sealed Indian challenge to naught, though the home side girls matched, at least on scored board midway through the second half.

South Africa defeated India 5-2, though the teams were tied 2-2 till the 52nd minute.

With this three win and a draw the Africans take their appointed place for the final, while India’s rank in the pool would depend much on the outcome of others matches, including its last match, that is against Italy, on Friday.

India is now third on the table, behind topper South Africa and surprise element of this tournament, Italy, which has a point more than India’s 7.

Nothing short of win will suffice for India to make it to the final.

South Africans changed the gear in the second half, availaing chances that come their way.

The fifth goal the visiting side scored gives enough proof. What otherwise would have been normal clearance by any defender, had become worrisome for India. Kirandeep Kaur, under pressure, fumbled near the right and the ball was stolen right under her nose and the goal number five was there.

Indian girls will now rue the two points they gave up in the beginner. The 1-1 draw against Ukraine will taunt India till they finish second with a win over Italy on the last pool day. Till then the Indians have to wait with patience.

Tomorrow is rest day.