It’s a cruel game – that’s partly why we’re addicted to it. DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba had a chance to win the penalty shoot-out against South Africa, but he saw his kick saved. A few minutes later, he was caught on camera leaving the pitch in tears. It’s how football works. Bafana Bafana somehow got a 0-0 draw despite being battered for 90 minutes in Abidjan, they were trailing in the penalty shoot-out, and yet they ended up on the winning side and ensured third-place finish in the Africa Cup of Nations 2023.South Africa we are bronze medal winners 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/usDmRkWabZ— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) February 10, 2024 Both Bafana Bafana and Les Leopards had the opportunity to finish the tournament with a win and secure a place on the podium. Although neither team was considered a favourite before the start of the tournament, earning a medal would have been a fantastic achievement for either. However, the first half was uneventful, with only two shots on target. Simon Banza’s weak attempt was easily collected by Ronwen Williams, while Mihlali Mayambela’s shot lacked the power to challenge Dimitry Bertaud.Williams deny Mbemba. 🚨#TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 #AfconwithMicky #AFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/EZ68Ut0YDC— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) February 10, 2024 In the second half, there was slightly more goalmouth action with DR Congo being the more dangerous team. Banza and Grady Diangana hit shots over the bar, while Meschak Elia’s long-range effort stung Williams’ palms. Silas Mvumpa had the best opportunity to score, but he could only find the side-netting after Elia passed the ball across the box. Mayambela had a low shot saved by Bertaud, but it lacked the power to test the DR Congo shot-stopper. DR Congo had a final chance to score, but substitute Fiston Mayele could only volley wide from a promising position.##NAJAVA_MECA_7863387##Unlike the other knockout rounds, the match went to a penalty shootout rather than extra time. Teboha Mokoena missed his penalty, hitting the post, but Williams saved two penalties from Chancel Mbemba and Elia to secure a win for South Africa. This was an incredible journey for South Africa, and they will look to build on this moving forward. DR Congo can also be proud of their performance and will aim to carry their form into the qualification process for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.AFCON 2023Third-placeSaturdaySouth Africa – DR Congo 0-0South Africa win 6-5 on penalties.FinalSunday23:00: (2.70) Nigeria (3.10) Ivory Coast (3.00)***odds are subject to change***
