In a thrilling turn of events at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, South Africa secured a surprising 2-0 victory over 10-man Morocco, setting the stage for a quarter-final clash against Cape Verde. Evidence Makgopa’s 57th-minute goal, confirmed after a VAR check, put Bafana Bafana ahead and paved the way for a historic upset.
Morocco had a late chance to equalize when Achraf Hakimi stepped up for a penalty in the 85th minute, following Mothobi Mvala’s handball. However, the Moroccan star’s attempt hit the crossbar, leaving South Africa in control. The drama continued as Manchester United midfielder Sofyan Amrabat was sent off in stoppage time.
Teboho Mokoena then sealed the victory with a classy free-kick in the 90th minute, confirming South Africa’s place in the quarter-finals. The 1996 champions are now poised to face Cape Verde, aiming to surpass their quarter-final exit in 2019 and secure a spot in the last four. The match promises to be a compelling battle between the underdogs and the unbeaten Blue Sharks on Saturday.