Banyana must stay strong for 90 minutes, says Kgatlana

Star South Africa striker Thembi Kgatlana says the team must remain mentally focused for entire games after twice surrendering winning positions at the Women's World Cup.

Kgatlana scored and assisted in Friday's dramatic 2-2 draw with Argentina, but was left with bittersweet emotions after late goals cost Banyana Banyana a historic maiden victory.

Despite earning Player of the Match honours, she reflected: "It's very bittersweet. In both games against Sweden and Argentina, we conceded after leading."

Kgatlana added: "We play so well but then drop points. Against Italy we must be hungry until the last minute if we want to go through."

Her goal and selfless assist for Linda Motlhalo had put South Africa on course for a win in front of 9,000 passionate fans in Dunedin.

But strikes from Sophia Braun and Romina Nunez in the last 15 minutes wiped out their lead to prevent a first World Cup triumph.

Kgatlana pinpointed the improved attacking threat from Banyana Banyana but urged greater focus defensively.

"I think we're really strong together and that's why we get results," she noted. "In 2019 we scored one goal. Already we have three here and that's great."

However, Kgatlana stressed: "We need to work on not conceding late in games."

With hopes still alive before their final group game, she identified the experience gained from players based overseas as benefiting the national team.

But Kgatlana believes their four-day break before facing Italy is vital preparation time.

"It's important we're fresh for the game," she said. "The fresher we are, the better we'll play - that's for the coaches to look at."

Despite the heartbreak, earning their first World Cup point shows South Africa's progression.

But heeding Kgatlana's call to maintain concentration could prove crucial to finally achieving the historic win that has so far eluded them.