Spain opened their 2019 Women's World Cup with a 3-1 win over newcomers South Africa, in part thanks to two late controversial penalties. The win was their first ever at the tournament.
ThembiKgatlana gave Banyana Banyana the lead after 25 minutes, and despite tons of possession, Spain barely created chances for an equaliser. Two penalty decisions inside the final 20 minutes turned the match on its head, however, with Jennifer Hermoso converting both. Nothando Vilakazi was sent off as a result of the second penalty, due to a decision from the video assistant referee.
Lucia Garcia added a third goal to secure the win.