History In The Making As SPAR Baby Proteas Book Semi-Final Spot
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
The SPAR Baby Proteas secured their place in the history books on 25 September with a 79–45 victory over the Cook Islands, reaching the semi-finals of the Netball World Youth Cup for the first time ever. The result marks a major breakthrough for South African under-21 netball, as the team now stands just one match away from a medal.
Match Overview
The Cook Islands started brightly, looking to unsettle South Africa in the opening exchanges. Their early surge briefly caught the Baby Proteas off guard, but South Africa quickly regrouped to lead 18–13 at the first break.
From there, the Baby Proteas asserted their dominance. Strong defensive pressure and clinical finishing extended their lead to 38–21 by halftime, giving them clear control. In the championship quarter, tactical substitutions injected fresh energy, helping the side stretch their advantage to 55–35.
The final 15 minutes saw South Africa maintain their momentum, closing out the game in commanding fashion. At full-time, the scoreboard read 79–45, sealing a semi-final berth that had eluded the nation in all previous tournaments.
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
Q1: 18 – 13
Q2: 38 – 21
Q3: 55 – 35
Q4: 79 – 45
Starting VII vs Cook Islands
GS – Bianca Lubbe
GA – Luane Smith
WA – Renezia Andrews
C – Kyla Dames
WD – Phophi Nematangari (C)
GD – Kiara van Eeden
GK – Ametisse Bandu
Coach’s Reflection
Head coach Precious Mthembu was emotional after the game, highlighting the significance of the achievement: “This is history in the making because we have finally secured a quarter-final victory and booked a semi-final spot, this has never happened before. The girls believed in each other, supported one another, and this is unbelievable. The win is testament to their discipline, hard work, and determination. Now we need to shift focus to tomorrow’s game against Australia.”
Semi-Final Preview: South Africa vs Australia
The Challenge Ahead
The Baby Proteas’ reward for their historic quarterfinal win is a semi-final showdown with Australia, a nation synonymous with netball excellence. Australia are four-time World Youth Cup champions and the current senior World Cup silver medallists, bringing pedigree and experience to the contest.
Key Factors
Defensive Discipline: South Africa’s ability to cut off Australia’s attacking rhythm will be crucial, with captain Phophi Nematangari expected to marshal the defensive line.
Scoring Efficiency: Converting turnovers into goals will be vital, as Australia are unlikely to allow many second chances.
Mental Resilience: Australia’s fast starts and relentless pressure will test South Africa’s composure across all four quarters.
Next Fixture
26 September, 19:00 – South Africa vs Australia (Semi-Final)
What It Means
For the Baby Proteas, this semi-final represents both the biggest challenge and the greatest opportunity in their history. Win, and they will compete for the gold medal. Lose, and they will still have a chance to fight for a first-ever World Youth Cup bronze.
🏐🔥🇿🇦✨
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