Netherlands beat South Africa 2-0, advances into quarter-finals

Aug 6: The Netherlands secured a quarter-final spot against Spain at the Fifa Women's World Cup but not before enduring several anxious moments against South Africa.

Jill Roord, Manchester City's new club record signing, nodded the Dutch ahead in the ninth minute but South Africa went close to equalising several times against the 2019 runners-up.

Banyana Banyana captain Thembi Kgatlana was once again a real handful and forced four fine saves from Daphne van Domselaar, Aston Villa's new goalkeeper, at Sydney Football Stadium.

Lineth Beerensteyn doubled the lead after a mistake by South Africa keeper Kaylin Swart in the second half.

The Netherlands will return to New Zealand to face Spain in Wellington next Friday (02:00 BST) for a place in the semi-finals.

However, they will be without midfielder Danielle van de Donk who picked up a second yellow card and is suspended.

(BBC)