Hugo Broos’ side defeated DR Congo with 6-5 on penalties at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium last night, securing third place.  Their victory over DR Congo ensures that South Africa takes the bronze medal for the first time since 2000.

Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams once again led from the front and saved two penalties during the shoot-out.

At the post-match press conference, coach Hugo Broos praised his players, saying they showed great mentality.

“I said after the Nigeria match that I was proud of this team, and I think today people can see why I say I am proud of this team.  We were not fresh but when you see the mentality in that group, it is impressive. The boys did very well. They showed great mentality,” said.

In tonight’s 2023 Afcon final, Nigeria will take on hosts Ivory Coast at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan.  

Nigeria has previously won the competition in 1980, 1994 and 2013.  Ivory Coast has lifted the trophy twice before, in 1992 and 2015.  Tonight’s final will be the 34th time the title of Africa’s greatest will be decided.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger