By Michael Madyira
Ronwen Williams produced a gallant performance in the 2-1 penalty shootout victory over Cape Verde to help Bafana Bafana reach the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Following a 0-0 draw after extra time, Williams came through for Bafana to save four penalties and cover up for Zakhele Lepasa and Aubrey Modiba, who missed their spot kicks.
It was an exciting end to the contest after both teams failed to score in open play.
For a team that arrived in Ivory Coast struggling for consistency, Bafana silenced their critics and have edged closer to lifting Afcon for the first time since 1996.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos maintained the same team that has been starting since their second group game.
Cape Verde’s Bubista surprisingly started former Manchester United forward Bebe from the bench.
Teboho Mokoena almost thrust Bafana ahead after nine minutes but his trademark long-range shot was saved by Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha.
Kevin Pina then shot just wide for the Blue Sharks in the 16th minute in what was their first real chance of the game.
Both sides struggled to trouble each other in what was a drab first half, although Cape Verde did look more promising.
Khuliso Mudau came close for Bafana just after the restart but had his shot deflected for a corner kick.
The match tempo dropped after what looked like a strong start to the second half.
The introduction of Bebe was expected to give Cape Verde some spark up front, but even then, Bafana’s defence were not too troubled.
Gilson almost won it for the the Blue Sharks right at the death after coming face-to-face with Williams, whose save forced the ball to crash against the woodwork.
The contest spilled into extra time and both teams could not be separated, leaving the lottery kicks to decide the night.
Broos’ men will next meet Nigeria in a colossal last four clash on Wednesday.
Pictured above: Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams
Image source: CAF
