South Africa are through to the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Cape Verde 2-1 on penalties following a 0-0 draw after extra time.
It is the fourth time that Bafana Bafana have reached the last four of the continental showpiece, having won the tournament in 1996 and finished as runners-up in 1998.
The match was a tight affair, with neither side able to find a breakthrough in regulation time. The game went to extra time, but the deadlock was not broken.
In the penalty shootout, Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams saved two spot-kicks to help his team to victory.
South Africa will now face Nigeria in the semi-finals on Wednesday, February 8.
Cape Verde’s impressive run comes to an end
Cape Verde can be proud of their performance at AFCON 2023. The Blue Sharks were making their fourth appearance at the tournament, and they exceeded expectations by reaching the quarter-finals.
Cape Verde put up a valiant fight against South Africa, but they were ultimately undone by their inability to score goals.
The Blue Sharks will now head home with their heads held high, knowing that they have competed with the best teams in Africa.
Bafana Bafana eye a place in the final
South Africa will be hoping to reach their third AFCON final when they face Nigeria in the semi-finals.
Bafana Bafana have a good record against the Super Eagles, having won three of their last five meetings.
The match between South Africa and Nigeria is sure to be a cracker, and it will be interesting to see who comes out on top.
