South Africa captain Refiloe Jane stretchered out of World Cup match after collision
South Africa women's national soccer team was without their captain early in a World Cup match against Argentina on Thursday.
South Africa captain Refiloe Jane exited Dunedin Stadium in New Zealand on a stretcher after a tough collision with Argentina midfielder Florencia Bonsegundo. Jane and Bonsegundo both landed awkwardly on their feet after they went up for a free kick at the 18-minute mark.
Bonsegundo was able to get up and walk off the collision, while Jane rolled on the grass in pain. She was tended to by trainers during several minutes of stoppage before being carried off the field during the 21st minute. Jane wiped tears from her eyes with her jersey as she was carried out.
Jane was replaced by midfielder Kholosa Biyana.
South Africa was able to rally around their injured captain. Linda Motlhalo scored on a fast break assist from Thembi Kgatlana at the 30-minute mark to put South Africa up 1-0 over Argentina. The goal was reviewed and Motlhalo was ruled onside.
South Africa's women's national team has never won a World Cup game or got a draw in the country's history. Argentina's women are also looking for their first ever World Cup win.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: South Africa's World Cup captain stretchered off after collision
