In a nail-biting conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, South Africa emerged victorious over Cape Verde, securing their place in the semi-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout. The match, which ended goalless after 120 minutes, saw South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams become the hero by saving four penalties, leading to a 2-1 win in the shootout.
The match, held at Stade Charles Konan Banny de Yamoussoukro, was a defensive masterclass, with both teams failing to break the deadlock in regular and extra time. Cape Verde had a golden chance in the 56th minute, but Williams denied Garry Rodrigues. He continued his impressive form with a crucial save against Gilson Benchimol in stoppage time.
In extra time, Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha mirrored Williams’ heroics, thwarting Mihlali Mayambela and Evidence Makgopa’s attempts, setting the stage for a tense penalty shootout. South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena and Mothobi Mvala successfully converted their penalties, and despite Bryan Teixeira’s goal for Cape Verde, Williams’ outstanding performance in goal denied Bebe, Willy Semedo, Laros Duarte, and Patrick Andrade, ensuring Bafana Bafana’s advancement.
The match was a significant moment for Cape Verde, who were on the brink of their first-ever semi-final appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations. However, their penalty misses, coupled with Williams’ exceptional saves, saw South Africa progress to the last four for the first time since 2000.
Ronwen Williams was undoubtedly the player of the match. His reflex save from Gilson in the second half’s stoppage time was pivotal, and his composure during the penalty shootout was remarkable, guessing correctly to save four Cape Verde penalties.
Player Ratings:
- Cape Verde: Vozinha (8), Moreira (6), Costa (7), Pico (7), Paulo (7), Monteiro (6), Pina (7), Rocha (6), Rodrigues (6), Mendes (7), Cabral (7). Subs: Semedo (5), Patrick (5), Bebe (7), Gilson (7), L. Duarte (N/A).
- South Africa: Williams (9*), Mudau (7), Kekana (7), Mvala (7), Modiba (7), Mokoena (7), Sithol (6), Morena (5), Zwane (7), Tau (6), Makgopa (6). Subs: Maseko (5), Mayambela (6), Adams (5), Lepaso (N/A), Mashego (N/A)
Match Highlights:
- 40′: Cape Verde’s Mendes evades a challenge, but his shot is blocked by Modiba.
- 56′: Rodrigues’ one-on-one opportunity is saved by Williams.
- 90+3′: Williams makes a reflex save to deny Gilson, tipping the shot onto the post.
- 92′: Vozinha makes two crucial saves for Cape Verde against Mayambela and Makgopa.
- Penalty Shootout: Williams saves Patrick’s penalty, securing South Africa’s semi-final spot.
This victory marks a significant milestone for South Africa in the Africa Cup of Nations, demonstrating their resilience and defensive prowess. As they prepare for their next challenge against Nigeria, the team carries the momentum of a hard-fought victory and a goalkeeper in outstanding form.
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