South Africa booked their place in the semi-finals of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic 4–1 penalty shootout win over Senegal on Saturday evening.
The tightly contested quarterfinal in Bouaké ended 0–0 after 120 minutes, with neither side able to find a breakthrough in normal or extra time.
Despite creating several chances, South Africa were kept at bay by Senegal’s solid defence and the excellent goalkeeping of Adji Ndiaye. Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, and Karabo Dhlamini all came close but couldn’t convert.
Senegal also looked dangerous on the counter, with Mama Diop and Nguenar Ndiaye testing South African keeper Andile Dlamini. Dlamini proved crucial, making key saves throughout the game and stepping up in the shootout.
With VAR ruling out a possible South African penalty, the game headed to spot kicks. Dlamini saved efforts from Nguenar Ndiaye and Méta Kandé, giving her side the upper hand.
South Africa’s penalty takers remained composed, with Dhlamini, Tiisetso Makhubela, Gabriela Salgado, and Bambanani Mbane all scoring.
Mbane’s emphatic finish sealed the shootout win and set up a much-anticipated semi-final clash with rivals Nigeria as South Africa continue their quest to defend their WAFCON crown.
