Angola were quick to get off their starting blocks at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Zambia putting Bafana Bafana under tremendous pressure in the opening minutes of the game but didn’t do much to trouble the Bafana defense.

Bidvest Wits keeper, Darren Keet, was called to action as early as the 7th minute after a stinging shot by Djalma Campos made its way through a crowd of players but found Keet on high alert.

Minutes later, the South African eventually found their rhythm and got into their usual passing game with Bongani Zungu and Maphosa Modiba pulling the strings in the middle of the park. From then on it was South Africa who raided the Angolan defence with Phakamani Mahlambi being a thorn in their defence.

A lapse of concentration in the 31st minute resulted in South Africa being punished by Campos following a casual pass by Buhle Mkhwanazi.

However, Stuart Baxter’s men came out firing in the second stanza and quickly levelled matters through debutant, Lebogang Mothiba, with a cheeky back-heel following a good run from Mahlambi.

“The boys showed character against a very stubborn Angola side. We started off a bit slow in the opening minutes and they really came at us. We eventually gained control of the game with the younger players gaining more confidence. The opening goal was a bit unfortunate but I am glad we recuperated and found the equaliser. It was a great performance and we're looking forward to the final on Saturday,” said Baxter.

SAFA