South Africa’s coach, Hugo Broos, expressed his belief that his team outperformed Nigeria and deserved victory in Wednesday’s semi-final showdown at the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Despite South Africa’s strong performance, Nigeria secured a spot in the final for the first time since their 2013 triumph, prevailing in a thrilling penalty shootout.
Broos lamented the outcome, stating, “Football can be tough sometimes. When you witness the performance of my team today, and then it comes down to penalties, and you lose, it’s hard to accept. We played a very good game today.”
The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular and extra time, with Nigeria emerging victorious with a 4-2 penalty shootout win, culminating in Kelechi Iheanacho’s decisive penalty.
Nigeria took the lead in the 67th minute through William Troost-Ekong’s penalty after Mothobi Mvala fouled Victor Osimhen in the box. Teboho Mokoena equalized for South Africa from the penalty spot in the 90th minute following a VAR ruling on Alhassan Yusuf’s foul on Percy Tau.
South Africa had an opportunity to clinch victory in stoppage time, but Khuliso Mudau missed an open goal after Stanley Nwabali’s save.
Broos emphasized South Africa’s strong performance throughout the tournament and expressed pride in his players despite the disappointment of not reaching the final.
South Africa will compete against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the third-place playoff, while Nigeria will face Cote d’Ivoire in the final on Sunday.
