South Africa secured the third position at the Africa Cup of Nations finals held in Ivory Coast after defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo 6-5 on penalties following a goalless draw at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium on Saturday.
The match was an intense battle, with South Africa midfielder Teboho Mokoena hitting the outside of the post with the first kick in the penalty shootout.
However, the next eight attempts were all successful, leading to DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba’s final kick, which required him to score to win the match.
Unfortunately for DR Congo, South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made a crucial save, taking the shootout into sudden death.
Williams once again came to the rescue, saving Meschak Elia’s effort to secure a well-deserved victory for South Africa.
The match was a closely contested affair, with DR Congo dominating play, but failing to convert any chances.
Silas Katompa squandered two clear opportunities to put them ahead, first in the eighth minute when free on the left with just Williams to beat, but his hesitation allowed the keeper to grab the ball at his feet.
When Williams dropped a high ball in his box midway through the second half, without any pressure on him, Katompa had an even easier chance, but unfortunately, he shot into the side netting.
Fifteen minutes from the end, DR Congo striker Simon Banza also had a clear sight on goal but botched his effort from point-blank range.
Subsequently, substitute Fiston Mayele did well to bring a long ball down on his chest and get goalside of his marker but missed his chance as his effort in the 89th minute went across the face of goal.
South Africa, who lost on penalties after extra time in Wednesday’s semi-final to Nigeria, looked exhausted as they made only three changes to their line-up, while DR Congo gave an opportunity to all their reserves with nine changes from their midweek loss to the Ivory Coast.
Despite the fatigue, the South Africans showed tremendous character to secure the win.
The stage is now set for the final showdown between hosts Ivory Coast and Nigeria in Abidjan on Sunday to determine the continental champions.
