AFP / SIA KAMBOU / AFP / SIA KAMBOU
This CAN 2024 continues to surprise. The elimination of Morocco (2-0), favorite for the final victory, is unexpected. Find out what caught the editorial attention.
Tops
Makgopa as an Evidence
Like most attackers on the field, the South African number 9 was discreet during the majority of the match. But when his team needed him, he stepped up at the right time. At the hour mark and while the Atlas Lions were regaining momentum, Evidence Makgopa was found between the lines of the opposing defense. The striker swallowed the space that Saïss left him, and took the ball in front of Bono, before beating him. It was the only chance the scorer had but it was enough to put Bafana Bafana on the path to qualification. That’s all we ask of an attacker.
Springboks or Bafana Bafana?
Whether in rugby or football, South Africa remains South Africa. The Hugo Bross players knew they were going to have to impose a significant physical challenge on their opponent and they did it brilliantly. Very aggressive, the ‘Sud-Afs’ did not pretend to engage in the duels, as evidenced by the yellow cards received by defenders Modiba and Kekana. Facing a team that likes to touch the ball, and even a little too much, they showed personality and courage, to make life difficult for their opponents, like Teboho Mokoena, scorer and man of the match. The Springboks/Bafana Bafana ate Atlas Lion.
Flops
Hakimi, the break
Often impeccable in important moments of the Moroccan selection, Achraf Hakimi was, this time, completely missed. The Parisian was sure of himself when taking the penalty for hope 5 minutes from time. But obviously, the pressure was too strong and the full-back hit the air very hard. Williams was beaten but the ball hit the crossbar. Hakimi was exemplary throughout the competition, but football is cruel. The image that will emerge from its CAN will be for years this decisive miss against South Africa.
Amine Adli could have done better
Placed on the right side of the attack in the absence of Ziyech, the Bayer Leverkusen player alternated between good and bad. Despite his few flashes on his lane, the young winger lacked cutting edge when he made the difference. Like on this beautiful solo a few minutes before half-time, which ended up going out of goal due to lack of lucidity. Overall, he knew how to be dangerous but was not fair enough in the last gesture. Which cost him a change at the hour mark.