Baby Proteas start Youth World Cup with dominant win over Barbados

THE SPAR Baby Proteas made a flying start to the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup, overpowering Barbados by 75 goals in Gibraltar on Saturday.

Late line-up change

South Africa had to adjust just hours before the game when Jade Atkins was withdrawn through injury. Renezia Andrews was drafted in as a replacement and made her debut midway through the second quarter.

Despite the disruption, South Africa quickly took control after Barbados scored first from the centre pass. The attacking duo of Zandre Prinsloo and Luane Smith ensured a strong opening, with the Baby Proteas leading 25-7 at the end of the first quarter.

Relentless performance

Coach Precious Mthembu’s side maintained their intensity, stretching the lead to 54-15 by half-time. Andrews came on in the second quarter, while further changes in the third added fresh energy. Nematangari excelled in the wing defence role, intercepting repeatedly and anchoring a defence that limited Barbados to just six goals in the quarter.

By the final break, South Africa had surged to 77-21, eventually sealing their 31st World Youth Cup victory with a record winning 102-27 margin over Barbados.

Coach’s reaction

“What a great performance tonight that was displayed by our players. I am thoroughly impressed by the players' energy; they were so focused, the team worked. I think we executed our game plan very well, especially offensively – we shared the ball very nicely and everyone on the court was able to contribute. 

“It is games like these that remind one of how and why discipline is important. The score did not alter our discipline,” said head coach Mthembu.

Next up

The Baby Proteas face Trinidad and Tobago in their second group match on Monday, September 22, at 10am.

Quarter Score Breakdown:

Q1 – SPAR Baby Proteas 25-07 Barbados

Q2 - SPAR Baby Proteas 54-15 Barbados

Q3 - SPAR Baby Proteas 77-21 Barbados

Q4 - SPAR Baby Proteas 102-27 Barbados