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| Hugo Broos, head coach of South Africa, shows his disappointment during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal penalty shootout against Nigeria at Peace Stadium in Bouake, Ivory Coast, on 7 February 2024. (Gavin Barker / BackpagePix) |
South Africa's hopes of reaching their first Africa Cup of Nations final since 1998 were dashed by the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who secured a 4-2 penalty shootout victory to advance to the final in Ivory Coast. The South Africans had lost five of their previous six Afcon semifinals. Still, they managed to secure a place in Sunday's decider against the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The game resembled the Thrilla in Manila fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. South Africa's defensive approach was deemed ineffective, with Siyanda Xulu replacing Thapelo Morena. However, the Nigerians, led by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon, were no slouches. The deadlock was broken in the 67th minute when Mothobi Mvala fouled Osimhen in the box.
Egyptian referee Amin Mohamed Omar pointed to the penalty spot, and Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong blasted the ball past Bafana Bafana goalkeeper and penalty-saving specialist Ronwen Williams. However, the video assistant referee (VAR) brought play back after a television review by on-field referee Omar, leading to Teboho Mokoena levelling the score for Bafana Bafana.
The game went into extra time, and both teams appeared lethargic. Nigeria won 4-2 in penalties, adding to their four African titles. For Bafana, they can secure a bronze medal in Saturday's "best loser" match.
