Half-time in Durban. And South Africa really do need to take advantage of the interval following a nervy and tenacious first 45′. Morocco were all over them in the first 20 minutes following Issam El Adoua’s headed opener. Chafni, Belghazouani and El Arabi all had brilliant chances to extend the lead with Bafana Bafana’s back four appearing too timid to make important challenges. All to play for in a massive 45 minutes coming up.
During the first 2″ good start from Morocco who earn a set-piece in the opening exchanges. Delivered in towards the edge of the area, Kaddioui strikes – but it’s flown just wide of the post.
With a brilliant save from Khune. It’s Morocco who have the first real chance on goal. A lovely lifted ball into the striker sees Khune race off his line and bat the ball away before holding the ball at the second attempt. South Africa are yet to race out of the blocks.
MOROCCO TAKE THE LEAD! It’s a fine inswinging delivery from the corner. El Adoua gets his head on it, and Khune is absolutely nowhere to defend the ball. It goes in off the 
crossbar, and MOROCCO ARE AHEAD!
28″ Yellow Card booked by Chakhir Belghazouani
Needless yellow card dished out to Morocco’s Chakhir Belghazouani. That’s their eighth of the tournament. Should Morocco and Cape Verde both draw their respective games 1-1, we could have a situation where qualification is decided on bookings. That would quite be interesting.
Frustration setting inside the Moses Mabidha Stadium in Durban as another kick awarded against the host which brought a collective exasperation from fans.
34″ Yellow card booked by A. Ngconga
Morocco South Africa
50% Possesion 50%
7 (5) Shots (on goal) 2 (0)
4 Fouls 8
5 Corner kicks 2
– Off-sides –
2 Saves 1
1 Yellow cards 1
– Red cards –
From a logistical point of view, a win for either Morocco or South Africa would see them remain in Durban. The second quarter-final will be played there next Saturday against the runners-up of Group B.
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