After defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo 6–5 on penalties, Bafana Bafana concluded its 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) competition by taking third place at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium on Saturday night.

South Africa will win the bronze medal for the first time since 2000 thanks to their victory over the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

As Bafana Bafana settled into the game, DR Congo opened with a spectacular demonstration of their offensive style.

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After that, South Africa got going and put on a few attacking displays of their own.

Early in the first half, Evidence Makgopa was given a great ball by Teboho Mokoena, and he attempted a shot but missed.

The Leopards replied soon after, but Nkosinathi Sibisi thwarted their attempts.

In the 27th minute, Banza had another wonderful chance for the DR Congo, but Ronwen Williams easily collected it since his shot was too weak.

In the 38th minute, Diangana attempted to feed Banza at the back post, but his shot was too high to be converted, giving them another opportunity.

Bertaud stopped Mihlali Mayambela’s attempt, which would have given Bafana Bafana some hope with his right foot as well.

Meshack crossed the goal line at the conclusion of the first half, but South Africa’s defenders came through valiantly to thwart the attack.

During the first half of the contest, neither team was able to break the deadlock.

Similar to the first half, both teams attempted to score but were unsuccessful in doing so in the second half.

DR Congo was less possessive than South Africa.

Despite Williams’ error in losing the ball and leaving the net uncovered, Silas made a good attempt but was unable to take advantage of it.

The match continued to follow the same pattern of neither team finding the back of the net, raising the prospect of extra time.

After the game ended in a draw at the end of regulation, Bafana Bafana won the penalty shootout 6-5.

Williams was the match’s hero once more, making two saves to help South Africa place third in the 2023 Afcon.