Forsyth Barr Stadium will host Argentina vs South Africa match on Friday. Both teams will be looking to get off the mark at the Women's World Cup 2023 tomorrow. The South Americans were defeated 1-0 by Italy in their opening game, while Sweden defeated South Africa by 2-1. Argentina's first match looked set to finish goalless before an 87th-minute from Cristiana Girelli changed everything. They are still waiting for their first win at the World Cup finals, with their 10 games at the tournament ending with two draws and eight defeats. The only positive is their recent defensive performances. They have conceded just two goals in their last seven internationals.
South Africa came very close to picking up a point, but Amanda Ilestedt's 90th-minute winner ensured Sweden's victory. After producing an impressive performance against the second-highest-ranked team in the world, South Africa will believe that they can trouble Argentina and Italy in their final two group games. After losing all four of their games at the World Cup finals, South Africa will be looking to claim their first points at the tournament on Thursday.
FIFA Women's World Cup 2023: Argentina vs South Africa Match Preview
Match Details
- Match: Argentina vs South Africa
- Kickoff time & Date: 28/07/2023 | 5:30 A.M. (IST)
- Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, New Zealand
- Where to watch: Fancode (India) and DD Sports
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FIFA Women's World Cup 2023: Argentina vs South Africa | Team News
Despite falling to defeat in their opening game, Argentina boss German Portanova could decide to name an unchanged starting XI. After picking up yellow cards against Italy, Miriam Mayorga, Eliana Stabile, Florencia Bonsegundo and Mariana Larroquette are all one booking away from a one-match suspension. Goalkeeper Vanina Correa will wear the captain's armband, and she will be shielded by the central defensive pairing of Mayorga and Aldana Cometti, who will be looking to help their country keep just their second clean sheet at a World Cup finals.
As for their opponents, Magaia was forced off after picking up an injury while bundling home the opening goal against Sweden, but the 28-year-old should be fit to take her place in the starting lineup. If Magaia is available for Thursday's contest, South Africa Desiree Ellis could be tempted to name an unchanged side. Refiloe Jane and Kholosa Biyana are both one yellow card away from missing a match due to suspension. They received their first cards in the defeat to Sweden.
Possible Lineups
Argentina Women's possible starting lineup:
Correa; Braun, Mayorga, Cometti, Stabile; Nunez, Falfan, Benitez, Banini, Bonsegundo; Larroquette
South Africa Women's possible starting lineup:
Swart; Ramalepe, Mbane, Gamede, Holweni; Jane, Biyana; Seoposenwe, Motlhalo, Magaia; Kgatlana