The Baby Proteas had never previously finished higher than fifth in the tournament, but their quarter-final victory has now guaranteed them their best-ever finish, regardless of the outcome in the semi-final.

South Africa’s U21 team delivered another dominant performance, beating the Pacific Islanders 79-45, but their biggest challenge awaits as they now prepare to face the four-time world champions, Australia, in the last four.

It was the Cook Islands who made the brighter start to the quarter-final, but the Proteas soon found their rhythm, reeling their opponents in and taking control with an 18-13 lead after the first quarter.

South Africa shifted gears in the second 15-minute period, pulling away to establish a commanding 38-21 advantage at half-time.

In the third quarter, the South Africans rotated fresh legs onto the court and, while they maintained control, the Islanders kept fighting, with the score standing at 55-35 heading into the final stretch.

Luca Keun. Photo: Netball World Cup

The Baby Proteas finished in style, netting 24 more goals in the final quarter to seal their historic 79-45 win.

Reacting to her team’s historic win, coach Precious Mthembu said all the hard work, dedication, and camaraderie on the court were paying off.

“I am incredibly proud of the girls – I am actually tearing up,” said the former national player.

“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. This win is testament to their discipline, hard work, and determination throughout the journey.

“We now need to shift focus to Friday’s game against Australia.”

Friday’s big semi-final between South Africa and Australia will get underway at 19:00 in Gibraltar.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs