Afcon: South Africa goalkeeper saves four penalties in shootout win
South Africa Captain Ronwen Williams has emerged a hero, saving four penalties in a shootout, sending South Africa to the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) after a goalless draw against Cape Verde.
In the penalty shootout, Bebe, Willy Semedo, Laros Duarte, and Patrick Andrade were all stopped by Williams, whose outstanding performance included a spectacular late save tipping Gilson Benchimol’s strike against the woodwork. This crucial save ensured the quarter-final extended into extra time.
Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha made two exceptional saves early in extra time, denying Mihlali Mayambela and Teboho Mokoena in quick succession.
Having secured their spot in the semi-finals, South Africa now looks to avenge their defeat to Nigeria in their last appearance, when the Super Eagles bested them 2-0 in the Afcon semi-finals in 2000.
It was a thrilling match of almost chance, poor finishing and excellent goalkeeping.
Both keepers made crucial saves during the matches as well as save in the penalty shootout.
Ivory Coast beat Mali 2-1 to advance to the semis.
South Africa will now face Nigeria in the semi-finals on Wednesday 7 February at 17:00.
Ivory Coast will face DR Congo on the same day at 20:00 GMT.
The winners of the matches will meet in the Afcon final on Sunday 11 February at 20:00 GMT.