The revelation of the tournament has not had a choice against the runner-up in the world. And after the seven initial saves made by their goalkeeper, Daphne van Domselaar, the Netherlands ended up beating South Africa 2-0 to advance to the quarterfinals of the women’s soccer world cup where Spain awaits them.
The Oranje, first in their group ahead of the United States, did not particularly shine, but they surpassed the current African champions, 54th in the FIFA ranking, thanks in large part to their offensive efficiency.
Jill Roord provided the Netherlands with the necessary attacking capital from the opening whistle and, by the 9th minute, made good predictions by opening the scoring.
South Africa tried to break through just before the break, bombarding van Domselaar with several dangerous shots from Kgatlana and Wendy Shongwe. But van Domselaar held his own, sending the Netherlands into half-time with a 1-0 lead.
Lineth Beerensteyn, already in the second half, scored the decisive goal by sending the ball into the back of the net in the 68th minute. There was little the South African players could do who, after having made a meritorious first leg of the championship, saw how their rival took over of the ball until they have 70% possession.
With this victory, the Netherlands will face Spain on Thursday for a place in the World Cup semifinal
