'Better and better': Banyana Banyana showing the right stuff despite World Cup heartbreak

Just four years ago, Banyana Banyana had gone without a single victory at their first-ever participation at a FIFA Women's World Cup, hosted in France.

Defeats to China (1-0), Spain (3-1) and Germany (4-0) ended their tournament as quickly as it started following their qualification from advancing beyond the Women's Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals. 

Over 1 450 days later, at the ninth edition of FIFA's prestigious tournament, jointly held in New Zealand and Australia, Banyana exceeded expectations after being placed in yet another so-called "group of death" along side Sweden, Argentina and Italy.

A defeat to the Swedes, a draw against the South Americans and a win against the Italians, however, shocked everyone in South Africa, and the rest of the world.

Banyana became the first South African senior national side, male or female, to advance to the round of 16 at a World Cup, setting up a clash against the might Netherlands on Sunday.

Their tournament ended with a brave display as the Dutch fought tirelessly to win 2-0 at a sold-out Allianz Arena in Sydney, but Banyana can leave with their heads held high. 

"There's a huge difference between 2019 [World Cup] and now," said Banyana star Thembi Kgatlana during her post-match interview.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is contesting the bid to host the 2027 Women's World Cup, with the final decision to be confirmed by FIFA early next year.

In the past four years, Banyana have grown tremendously under the tutelage of former midfielder and current head coach Desiree Ellis.

Last year, the fruits of their hard labour were paid in fulcrum as they defeated host nation Morocco in the Wafcon final to be crowned African champions. 

"I must say that to all the girls that are