South Africa knock Morocco out of AFCON, advances to quarter-finals
Morocco faced an unexpected exit as South Africa secured a 2-0 victory, reaching the quarter-finals for the third time in their last four African Cup of Nations appearances, thanks to Evidence Makgopa’s decisive goal.
The first half unfolded with tight scoring opportunities marked by Teboho Mokoena’s audacious 40-yard attempt, causing a moment of concern for Yassine Bounou.
Morocco’s halftime message seemed to have emphasised more attacking intent, but Bafana Bafana’s counterattack proved pivotal. Makgopa, yet to score in the tournament, capitalised on a well-timed run, scoring and sending his team into wild jubilation.
Despite Morocco’s desperate attempts, their chance to level from the spot came late in the game. Ayoub El Kaabi’s close-range effort struck Mothobi Mvala’s hand, resulting in a contentious penalty. Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi’s penalty hit the crossbar, lacing the team’s frustration with predicament.
With Sofyan Amrabat receiving a red card for a foul in injury time, Morocco faced further adversity. Teboho Mokoena’s sublime free-kick goal into the top-left corner sealed Bafana Bafana’s progress and compounded Morocco’s misery.
South Africa’s coach Broos, conscious of the tournament’s unpredictable nature, now dares to believe their 28-year trophy drought might end in just 12 days.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Agriculture
UNESCO advocates access to scientific information to protect earth
UNESCO has called for access to reliable scientific information to protect the planet and mitigate the effects of climate change globally.
World
Putin’s Russia using chemical weapons to attack Ukrainian soldiers: U.S.
Russia’s ambassador to the U.S., Anatoly Antonov, condemned the accusations and called them “odious and unsubstantiated.”
States
Uzodimma promises uninterrupted electricity supply as Imo businesses collapse, unemployment rises
“There is absolutely limited or even no supply; businesses are dying every day, and people are losing every day with the unemployment market swelling every day,” Mr Uzodimma said.
States
Oyo state prepares for World Sango Festival; Makinde sets up 10-member committee
The 10-day festival is connected to the social, religious, cultural and political institutions of the Oyo.
World
U.S. Immigration: Japan, India are xenophobic countries, says Biden
“Immigrants are what makes us (the United States) strong,” the 81-year-old U.S. president said.
Faith
Religious freedom ‘extremely poor’ in Nigeria; government slow in responding to attacks: USCIRF
USCIRF expressed disappointment that India and Nigeria were not designated as CPCs.