South Africa's forward #9 Evidence Makgopa kicks the ball during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 third place play-off football match between South Africa and Democratic Republic of Congo at Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on February 10, 2024. (Photo by SIA KAMBOU / AFP)

AFCON: South Africa beats DR Congo in shootout to finish third

Last updated Feb 11, 2024

South Africa finished third in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Saturday by beating the Democratic Republic of Congo 6-5 on penalties.

After regular time ended with a goalless draw, the match went to a penalty shootout.

South Africa began the shootout with a miss from midfielder Teboho Mokoena and things seemed pretty grim for Bafana Bafana.

South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams saved a fifth penalty by Congo defender Chancel Mbemba to give their fans hope.

Williams took center stage again and became the hero for South Africa as he saved a seventh penalty taken by Elia Meschak and brought his team victory.

1996 AFCON champions South Africa won their second third-place match after winning it in 2000.

Nigeria will take on competition hosts Ivory Coast in the final Sunday.

Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)