South Africa’s Under-20 side have punched their ticket to next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, fighting back from a goal down to see off Zambia 4-2 in a thrilling COSAFA semi-final at the ABB 1 Stadium.
The Soccer Show – It’s time for Rele to shine!
Zambia struck first, with Duncan Musialela climbing above the Amajita defence in the 30th minute to convert a set piece and give the visitors an early lead.
South Africa found a way back into the contest once Emile Witbooi was introduced from the bench, his introduction playing a part in the team winning a penalty on the hour, which Steven Mendes tucked away for his fourth goal of the campaign.
Oarabile Booysen put the hosts in front moments later, driving a powerful effort past the Zambian goalkeeper.
Zambia weren’t finished though, drawing level to make it 2-2 and set up a tense finish. The turning point came with five minutes remaining, when a Zambian handball on the goal line saw them handed a straight red card and South Africa awarded another spot kick.
ALSO: Mokoena backs Pitso for Bafana success
Mendes made no mistake for his second of the day and fifth of the tournament, before Witbooi capped the win in stoppage time, with a sensational solo-effort, gliding through the defence before slipping the ball home to complete the scoring.
South Africa now wait to discover whether they’ll face Namibia or hosts Mozambique in the final.
Photo: COSAFAMEDIA/X
