SAFA president Danny Jordaan offered Banyana Banyana words of encouragement after their defeat to Spain at the FIFA Women's World Cup on Saturday, and touched on how tricky VAR can be.
Banyana took a first-half lead against the Europeans through a brilliant goal from Africa's finest Thembi Kgatlana, but a disastrous second half saw the team losing 3-1 in their first ever World Cup game.
Two VAR decisions went against Banyana, sending off of left back Nothando Vilakazi which also resulted in a penalty, due to the fact that her studs were up on a follow through from a clearance she was trying to make.
Speaking to the players after the match, Jordaan said: "You have done well, but the next match against China on Thursday is a must-win. You played well and defended well but there is nothing you can do about the Spain match, it is behind you now.
"The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system is tricky in that one day the decision goes against you and the next day is favours you – but believe it was harsh, no question about it on both occasions and that's what happens in football.
But those who thought that Spain was going to wipe the floor with you must have been surprised and you left your opponents very frustrated when they could not break down your defence.
"I must also remind you about something we talk about over and over, that half a chance that you get must be in the net don't wait for the second or third chance, as it might not come. When you went on the attack there was nothing their defenders could do, and that is your strength.
Banyana will take on China next, hoping to get their first points in Group B. China were beaten 1-0 by Germany.
"China also lost, so is it absolutely important that we win that game because if we do then we still have one more game, and you have a good chance – if you are not going to end second, then you end third with three points you can still go through to the second round," Jordaan said.
"So this is not the time to feel sorry or pity for yourself – saying we could have, we must have, or we should have, that doesn't help now."