Basetsana Clear Round 1 WC Qualifier

Basetsana progressed to the next round of the World Cup qualifiers in style having convincingly beaten Botswana 2-0 for a comprehensive 7-2 aggregate score.

(Click to read the first-round away-leg match report)

The Sheryl Botes side had already almost made sure of qualification for the next round having walloped Botswana 5-2 in the first leg in Botswana two weeks ago, meaning the second leg at Bidvest Stadium was a mere formality.

Basetsana got their goals from Shiwe Nogwanya and substitute Amanda Mthandi. The Under 20 side are now likely to face Tanzania in the next round for the road to Canada next year.

Stifling heat in which temperatures hit above 30 degrees Celsius was a major factor in the flow of the game, and the two teams went to half-time deadlocked at 0-0, but it was a different ball game altogether in the second half, as lethal striker Nogwanya put the home side in front.

Mthandi – who has always been used as an impact player, doubled the scoreline as Basetsana romped to an emphatic victory.

The match was attended by SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan, NEC members Truman Prince and Anastacia Tsichlas among the top officials. “It was a great game and I am happy our girls are still on track for the World Cup to Canada.

“The heat played a major role in the flow of the game but I was particularly impressed by the second half showing,” said Dr Jordaan.

Countries will represent the continent at the 2014 edition of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Canada from 5 – 24 August.

(With editing by gsport)