South Africa secured their first points in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a dominant performance against Namibia, winning 4-0 in a group stage encounter.
Percy Tau opened the scoring early with a penalty, seeking redemption after a missed spot-kick in the previous match against Mali.
Themba Zwane then stole the spotlight, netting twice in the first half within 16 minutes. His first goal came from a powerful finish, connecting with Thapelo Morena’s cross, while his second followed an electrifying run into the box. Substitute Thapelo Maseko added a fourth goal, capitalizing on a mistake by Namibian goalkeeper Lloyd Kazapua, who failed to handle his strike from Teboho Mokoena’s long ball.
With this resounding victory, both South Africa and Namibia have a chance to advance to the last 16 if they win their deciding matches on Wednesday. South Africa will face Tunisia, while Namibia will meet Mali.
The Brave Warriors can secure automatic progression by outperforming South Africa in their respective matches, or both nations may still qualify as two of the four best third-placed teams if they finish just outside the top two.
Percy Tau seized an opportunity for redemption when he converted a penalty, awarded after a VAR check following Riaan Hanamub’s handball. Thapelo Morena’s dynamic run down the right set up Zwane for his first goal. The 34-year-old striker calmly added his second from close range to complete a dazzling first-half attacking display.
Namibia had their moments in the game, with Prins Tjiueza forcing an early save from South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. Riaan Hanamub provided opportunities, including a chance for Absalom Limbondi, but the midfielder missed the target with an open goal.
The pace of the game slowed in the second half, with South Africa comfortably defending their lead against a less clinical Namibian side. Under coach Hugo Broos, South Africa achieved their country’s largest victory in Afcon finals history and the most significant margin of victory in the 2023 tournament, surpassing the 4-0 win by Tunisia over Mauritania in the group stage.
Reported By BBC Sports
