Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has issued the latest injury update on Hildah Magaia following their 2-1 defeat to Sweden in their FIFA Women’s World Cup opener at Wellington Regional Stadium on Sunday.
Magaia had to be substituted as she injured herself trying to get the ball over the goal line, which subsequently gave South Africa the lead against Sweden in the 48th minute of the showdown.
The Limpopo-born star was replaced by JVW FC forward Gabriela Salgado in the 56th minute.
It was initially feared that Magaia might be ruled out for the prestigious tournament when she was replaced. However, that won’t be the case, with the South African fans breathing a sigh of relief.
In fact, on this day last year, Banyana won their first-ever WAFCON title, courtesy of Magaia’s brace when they defeated Morocco 2-1 on their own turf.
DESIREE ELLIS ON HILDAH MAGAIA INJURY
Coach Ellis has since revealed the injury update of the national ‘Breadwinner’, as she is popularly known within the football circles.
The three-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year insists that the talented frontwoman will be back soon. She revealed that the injury is not that serious.
“As she went in to put the ball over the line, she hit the back station of the goal post with her hand and knee,” said Ellis in a post-match interview.
“So, it was a little bit tougher for her to come back. But you know, we have a good squad.
“Unfortunately, she couldn’t continue. But, she should be okay for the next game.”
South Africa are pitted in Group G alongside Sweden, Argentina and Italy.
BANYANA BANYANA’S NEXT ASSIGNMENT
Banyana’s next assignment will be against Argentina on Friday, 28 July 2023.
The game is set to kick off at 2:00 [South Africa time] at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
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