Coach Notoane leads SA to the 2020 Olympic Games

South Africa will be heading to the 2020 Olympic games after beating Ghana to the bronze medal in a thrilling AFCON U23 clash at the Cairo International Stadium on Friday afternoon.

South Africa took the lead through a Habib Mohamed own-goal as Luther Singh’s effort deflected in off the defender in the 15th minute.

Keletso Makgalwa had a perfect opportunity to make it 2-0 on the half-hour mark after being set up at point-blank range but a slight hesitation allowed Ghana the chance to clear their lines.

Notoane’s boys took the lead into the break but were made to rue their chances as Ghana found an equaliser in the 50th minute.

The fans in attendance at the iconic, Cairo Stadium were treated to an action packed game ending in a nervy penalty shoot-out.

It was Mondli Mpoto who was the hero in the shoot-out as he saved a vital penalty in sudden death as South Africa joined Egypt and Ivory Coast as the African football representatives in next years Tokyo Summer Olympics.

A visibly emotional coach joined the media and was clear that the hard work starts now as he prepares the team for the Olympics.

“There had to be one winner, and it happened to be us. It was a very emotionally draining match, I am happy for the players for their achievements. Thank you for the support. We now have to go back to the drawing board and prepare for the big stage in Tokyo.” David added.

Confirmed line-ups:

Ghana XI: K. Baah; K. Fobi, H. Mohammed, Z. Fuseini, E. Sarpong, E. Lomotey, M.Agbekpornu, Y. Yeboah (C), E. Mensah, K. Owusu, S. Gyabaa.

SA XI: M. Mpoto; K. Johannes, T. Mukumela, T. Malepe (C), K. Mohamme, T. Mokoena, A. Dlala, G. Margeman, K. Makgalwa, L. Singh, L. Foster.