Germany thumped South Africa 4-0 in a Group B match played at the La Masson, Nantes in France.
The Germans collected all nine points after three matches to sit at the top of the group. Spain finished second after being held to a 0-0 draw by China in a match played at Le Havre. Spain and China are level on four points but the Spaniards goal difference is one better. China who finished third are also through to the last sixteen. They qualify as one of the four best third placed teams.
From the first whistle Banyana Banyana were under fire against Germany. Germany, who are ranked second in the FIFA World rankings camped in Banyana’s half in the opening minutes. It was a matter of time until they secured the first goal in the 14th minute. The Germans continued to bombard Banyana Banyana.
South Africa’s defence failed to handle the pressure and committed too many mistakes.
It was 2-0 in the 29th minute. Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis made a tough decision to start with Amanda Mthandi in place of favourite Thembi Kgatlana. That backfired as Germany increased their tally to 3-0 before half time.
In the second half, coach Ellis made changes and brought in Kgatlana but the Germans were undeterred. They scored the fourth goal in the 58th minute to make it 4-0. Banyana Banyana are expected back in South Africa this week.
