South Africa Under-17 lose to Italy but still qualify for the knockout round

South Africa Under-17 boys went down 3-1 to Italy but managed to qualify for the knockout stages of the World Cup.

Vela Khumalo’s side were at the mercy of the results between host nation Qatar and Bolivia in the other group match.

That match ended goalless which meant South Africa’s four points in second place of Group A standings was enough for them to proceed to the knockout stage.

Amajimbos beat 3-1 in their opening match a week ago today Bolivia and drew 1-1 against Qatar in their second match.

Those games were enough for them as the loss to Italy did not deter their plans to proceed to the knockout stage.

Shaun Els scored the goal last night for the South African sides and talisman Emily WItbooi’s trickery was muted by the Italians last night.