In a surprising turn of events at the AFCON Côte d'Ivoire 2023, South Africa emerged victorious over Morocco with a 2-0 win in the round of 16. The encounter showcased a stark contrast between the halves in terms of drama and goal-scoring opportunities.
The first half remained relatively quiet, with few notable chances. Morocco's Atlas Lions thought they had the lead, only to see their goal disallowed by VAR, adding an element of controversy.
The real action unfolded in the second half, with South Africa seizing the initiative. Evidence Makgopa broke the deadlock in the 57th minute, connecting with a pass inside the 18-yard box and slotting the ball into the bottom right corner of the net.
Morocco, now trailing, intensified their efforts to equalize, bringing in more forwards. Their chance came in the 83rd minute when Teboho Mokoena's handball in the South African box led to a penalty after a VAR review. Achraf Hakimi stepped up, only to hit the ball against the crossbar, providing a crucial reprieve for South Africa.
The pressure remained high, but Morocco suffered a setback as Sofyan Amrabat received a second yellow card, upgraded to a straight red after VAR review, for a challenge on Mokoena as the last man.
Seizing the numerical advantage, South Africa secured their victory with a second goal, courtesy of a brilliant free-kick by Teboho Mokoena.
With this triumph, South Africa advances to the quarter-finals, where they are set to face Cape Verde on Saturday, February 3, at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro.
