Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams emerged as the hero in a captivating CAF Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final, where South Africa triumphed over Cape Verde in a penalty shootout, following a goalless 120 minutes. Williams astoundingly saved four penalties, securing Bafana Bafana’s spot in the semi-finals.
The first half saw both teams showing attacking prowess, with stellar defending and top-class goalkeeping from Williams and Cape Verde’s Vozinha ensuring a goalless scoreline at halftime. The second half mirrored the intensity, featuring numerous chances thwarted by resolute defending.
In added time, Cape Verde’s Gelson Tavares had a near-miss, hitting the bar with Williams making a crucial touch. With the score still 0-0 after regulation, extra time failed to break the deadlock, leading to a penalty shootout.
Post-match, South African coach Hugo Bruce commended Williams’s hard work, stating, “When we have a goalkeeper who stops 4 penalty kicks, this is not luck but a lot of hard work.” Bruce emphasized the pressure in the match and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to prepare for the semi-finals against Nigeria.
Cape Verde coach Bobista congratulated South Africa, acknowledging missed opportunities and the unpredictability of penalty kicks. He said, “The players who took the penalties are the best in our team, but when you are tired it is difficult. I am proud of our players, they showed their character.”
In reflection, the coaches highlighted the challenges faced during the intense quarter-final clash, with Bruce looking ahead to the semi-finals and Bobista expressing pride in his team’s journey despite the outcome.
