Hildah Magaia Injury Update, What Happened to Hildah Magaia?
by Swetha P
Updated Jul 24, 2023
Who is Hildah Magaia?
Hildah Tholakele Magaia, born on December 16, 1994, is a talented South African soccer player renowned for her role as a striker for Sejong Sportstoto. She began her career with Tuks, a second-tier South African side, before moving to TUT for the 2017 season, where she contributed to their league title victory. Magaia's exceptional skills were further recognized when she was named the Best Player at the 2020 COSAFA Women's Championship, leading to a two-year deal with Swedish club Morön BK.
Later, in 2022, she signed with Sejong Sportstoto in South Korea. On the international stage, Magaia represented South Africa at the 2019 Summer Universiade and played a crucial role in Banyana Banyana's triumph at the 2022 Africa Women Cup of Nations, where she scored the winning goal in a match against Nigeria's Super Falcons and netted two goals in the final against Morocco, securing the trophy for the South African Female National Team.
Hildah Magaia Injury Update
During Banyana Banyana's FIFA Women's World Cup opener against Sweden at Wellington Regional Stadium, Hildah Magaia sustained an injury while attempting to score a crucial goal. In the 48th minute of the match, Magaia managed to get the ball over the goal line, giving South Africa the lead against the third-ranked team in the world.
However, she injured herself in the process and had to be substituted in the 56th minute, making way for Gabriela Salgado. Concerns arose that the injury might force her out of the prestigious tournament, but Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis provided some relief by stating that the injury is not severe and that Magaia is expected to return to the field soon. Despite the setback, the team remains optimistic and confident in their squad as they progress through the tournament.
What Happened to Hildah Magaia?
In the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 match against Sweden, Hildah Magaia showcased immense determination and commitment, scoring a crucial goal to put South Africa ahead. Just 147 seconds into the second half, she seized an opportunity created by winger Thembi Kgatlana's efforts and bundled the ball into the net despite being tripped by a Swedish defender.
Unfortunately, the impact of the collision with the goalpost left Magaia injured and prone on the field. The goal, which should have been a moment of celebration for her nation, instead resulted in her substitution a few minutes later due to the pain she was experiencing. Despite the injury setback, Magaia's exceptional display of courage and dedication in putting her body on the line for her team left a lasting impression on the match and her teammates.
Banyana Banyana's Next Challenge
After a hard-fought opening match against Sweden in the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, Banyana Banyana is gearing up for their next challenge against Argentina on Friday, July 28, 2023, at Forsyth Barr Stadium. The game is scheduled to commence at 2:00 South Africa time, and with the injury update providing hope for Hildah Magaia's return, the team is determined to regroup and give their best performance.
The setback faced by Magaia during the previous match has only fueled their resolve to excel in the upcoming fixture. Competing in Group G alongside strong opponents like Sweden, Argentina, and Italy, Banyana Banyana is determined to showcase their talent and skills, aiming to advance in the tournament and leave a lasting impact on the world stage.
Hildah Magaia Injury Update - FAQs
Hildah Magaia is a South African soccer player who plays as a striker for Sejong Sportstoto.
Hildah Magaia plays as a striker for Sejong Sportstoto.
Magaia scored her first FIFA Women's World Cup goal in a 1-2 defeat to Sweden in the group stage.
Hildah Magaia injured herself while trying to get the ball over the goal line, hitting the back station of the goal post with her hand and knee.
Banyana's next match is against Argentina on Friday, July 28, 2023, at Forsyth Barr Stadium.