Head coach Desiree Ellis was left 'disappointed but proud' as Banyana bowed out of the FIFA Women's World Cup after a valiant effort against the Netherlands in a Round of 16 clash.
The African champions made history by qualifying for the knockout out stages of the global showpiece in just their second appearance but fell short against Netherlands who walked away 2-0 winners on Sunday.
READ | Banyana's World Cup journey ends in round of 16
Banyana were without captain Refiloe Jane following an injury sustained against Argentina while additional injuries to Jermaine Seoposenwe and Bambanani Mbane further diminished hopes of a quarter-final spot.
"They spoke about an underdog, but I don’t think there are any underdogs here at this World Cup because of a [different] decision here or there and we could have been speaking differently," Ellis said after the match.
"But I think the whole of South Africa should be very proud of this team. I know they got up very early in the morning and expected a victory, but we have also played against a very good side.
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— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) August 7, 2023
"We played against a side that was not expected to end at the top of their group and we wish them all the best in the next round.
"We are just proud but disappointed, but still proud of the players. Losing Mbane and Jermaine in the first half also didn't help the way we set up but we brought s scud of 23 players and the others who came up did very well.
Netherlands will meet Spain in the semi-finals on Friday.
Kick-off is at 03:00 (SA time).
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