South Africa, Jamaica, Sweden reach last 16 as Brazil head home

Sports Desk, Aug 2 (EFE).- South Africa and Jamaica made history on Wednesday as they qualified for the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time.

South Africa edged past Italy thanks to a thrilling 3-2 victory – their first ever at a World Cup – with Thembi Kgatlana scoring a dramatic 92nd minute winner to send the Banyana Banyana through to the next round and break Italian hearts.

Jamaica also booked their spot in the next round after a 0-0 draw against Brazil, who meekly limped out of the tournament.

While Brazil, with veteran star and former World player of the year Marta making her sixth World Cup appearance, had most of the ball, they grew increasingly desperate as the game wore on and failed to break down a well-organized Jamaican team that has yet to concede a goal.

At the final whistle, Jamaican jubilation contrasted sharply with the bitter disappointment for the South American champions Brazil.

France also sealed their place in the next round, topping Group F ahead of Jamaica in second place, after a hugely entertaining 6-3 win against Panama.

Kadi Diani scored a hattrick for the French, who will face the runners up of Group H, which is likely to be Germany.

In Wednesday’s other match, Sweden made it three wins out of three as they beat Argentina 2-0 to top Group G ahead of South Africa.

The win means the Scandinavians set up a Round of 16 clash with the USA, the pre-tournament favorites and champions of the past two World Cups. EFE

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