In a commanding display at the Africa Cup of Nations Group E clash, South Africa’s seasoned player Themba Zwane showcased his prowess, scoring twice as they convincingly defeated neighbors Namibia 4-0 at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium. This resounding victory significantly enhances their prospects of advancing to the last 16 in the tournament.
Zwane’s remarkable performance unfolded after Percy Tau successfully converted a 14th-minute penalty, rectifying his earlier miss in the match against Mali. Subsequently, substitute Thapelo Maseko contributed to the emphatic 4-0 win.
The 34-year-old Zwane orchestrated two goals within a span of 15 minutes, establishing a first-half lead from which Namibia struggled to recover. This victory, boasting the largest margin in the tournament, propelled Bafana Bafana ahead of Namibia in the standings, guided by goal difference.
Namibia, who caused a stir by upsetting Tunisia in their opening game, faced missed opportunities early in the match, particularly through key striker Peter Shalulile. Despite a promising start, Namibia found themselves grappling with the relentless South African attack.
The VAR system granted Bafana Bafana a penalty for the second consecutive game, an opportunity effectively seized by Tau to secure a lead. Zwane continued to impress, netting the second goal in the 25th minute and adding another two to complete his double, leaving Namibia’s defense unable to counter his prowess.
As the game tempo slowed in the second half, South Africa tactically shifted to a defensive stance against an opponent lacking ruthlessness. Thapelo Maseko sealed the triumph with a fourth goal in the 75th minute, capitalizing on a handling error from Namibia’s Lloyd Kazapua.
Bafana Bafana, seeking redemption after their initial defeat to Mali, now prepares to face Tunisia in their final group-stage match. Namibia, on the other hand, confronts Mali. Both teams are assured a place in the last 16 if they secure victories in their deciding matches.
Under the guidance of coach Hugo Broos, South Africa’s impressive win stands as the largest in their country’s AFCON history and the most significant margin of victory in the 2023 edition thus far. Notably, the only other four-goal victory in the 2021 tournament occurred in Tunisia’s win over Mauritania during the group stage.
