Despite a heart-wrenching semi-final loss to Nigeria on penalties in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast, South Africa head coach Hugo Broos expressed pride in his team’s performance.
Defender William Troost-Ekong’s penalty gave Nigeria the lead, matched by South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena in the final minute of regular time on Wednesday.
The game progressed to penalties, where Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero, securing a 4-2 victory at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake.
Broos acknowledged the difficulty of accepting defeat after a strong team performance, emphasizing South Africa’s dominance in the first half and missed opportunities.
Khuliso Mudau’s crucial miss in front of goal at the end of the 90 minutes added to the disappointment.
Despite the setback, Broos commended his players for their dedicated efforts throughout the tournament and expressed a desire to continue in his coaching role.
South Africa now faces DR Congo in the third-place play-off, while Nigeria advances to the final against hosts Ivory Coast.
Broos remains optimistic about his team’s achievements, acknowledging the resilience displayed despite the ultimate disappointment in the semi-final clash.
